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BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 
IN AMERICA 



BOOKS BY LOUISE SHELTON 

PUBLISHED BY CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA. Il- 
lustrated- dto ..,.».... net $5.00 

CONTINUOUS BLOOM IN AMERICA. Il- 
lustrated. 4to net S2.00 

THE SEASONS IN A FLOWER GARDEN. 

Illustrated. i2mo . . . . ^ . . net Si.oo 



I 




BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 
IN AMERICA 



BY 



LOUISE SHELTON 




NEW YORK 

CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS 

1915 



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COPYRIGHT, 1915, BY 
CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS 



Published November, 1915 




NOV 271915 



'CIJ 414795 



DEDICATED TO THE PRAISE OF THOSE AMER- 
ICAN MEN AND WOMEN, OF WHATSOEVER 
PERIOD, WHO HAVE PLANTED SO BEAUTIFULLY 
THAT THEIR GARDENS ARE AN INSPIRATION 
TO OTHERS IN ALL GENERATIONS 



IN GREEN OLD GARDENS 

Here may I live what life I please, 
Married and buried out of sight, 
Married to pleasure, and buried to pain, 
Hidden away amongst scenes like these 
Under the fans of the chestnut trees: 
Living m}^ child-life over again, 
With the further hope of a fuller delight, 
Blithe as the birds and wise as the bees. 
In green old gardens hidden away 
From sight of revel, and sound of strife. 
Here have I leisure to breathe and move. 
And do my work in a nobler way; 
To sing my songs, and to say my say; 
To dream my dreams, and to love my love. 
To hold my faith and to live my life. 
Making the most of its shadowy day. 

— Violet Fane. 



CONTENTS 



PAGE 



Foreword xv 

CH.\PTER 

I. The Garden and Its Meaning i 

II. Climate in America 8 

III. New England 13 

Maine 14 

New Hampshire and Vermont ... 27 

Massachusetts 37 

Rhode Island 7g 

Connecticut 89 

IV. New York . gg 

Long Island, New York 127 

V. New Jersey . . . 15c; 

VI. Pennsylvania . 187 

VII. Maryland 205 

VIII. Virginia 219 

IX. South Carolina 235 

X. Georgia and Florida . . .247 

vii 



CONTENTS 

CHAPTER PAGE 

XI. Tennessee and Missouri 255 

XII. Illinois and Indiana 265 

XIII. Ohio 277 

XIV. Michigan and Wisconsin 287 

XV. New Mexico 299 

XVI. California 303 

XVII. Oregon and Washington 323 

XVIII. Alaska 33 7 

XIX. Vancouver Island 340 

A Few Garden Gates 347 



Vlll 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

COLOR-PLATES 
I "Maeiemont," Newport, R. I Frontispiece 



v^ 



-rjy \ " Faielawn," Lenox, Mass Facing page 42 "^ 

IV The Author's Childhood Garden " " 106 "^ 

V S0UTH.AMPTON, L. I " " iso"^ 

VI "Glen Alpine," Moreisto-\vn, N. J " " i6o-^ 

VII 1 

y-|-Cj /Roland P.ark, Baltimore, Md " " 210"^ 

Plates I, T", VII, and VIII were reproduced from photographs colored by 
Mrs. Herbert A . Raynes, the basis of which were autochrome photographs. 



, HALF-TONE PLATES 

PLATE 

ii "Kenarden Lodge," B.ar Harbor, Maine. 
'2 "Blair Eyrie," Bar H.arbor, M.aine. 



"Hamilton House," South Berwick, Maine. 



13 

'6 

^ 8 \ Cornish, N. H. 

'9 
-10 

-II Old Bennington, Vt. 
^12] 

-13 >"Weld," Brookline, Mass. 
'14 J 

"15 Wellesley, Mass. 
16 "Holm Lea," Brookline, Mass. 

-17] 

-18 > "Fairlawn," Lenox, Mass. 

-19 J 

i20 1 

-21 > "Bellefontaine," Lenox, Mass. 
" 22 J 

ix 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

PLATE 

^23 "OvERLocH," Wenham, Mass. 

'■24 "Fernbrooke," Lenox, Mass. 

""2^ " Chesteewood," Glendale, Mass. 
^26] 

^27 [ "Riverside Farm," Tyringham, Mass. 
^28 J 

'29 "Naum Keag," Stockbridge, Mass. 

""30 "Brookside," Great Barrington, Mass. 

.31 "Rock M.aple Farm," HAinLXON, Mass. 

^32 Brookline, Mass. 

'33 Longfellow's Garden, Cambridge, Mass. 

.34 Old Witch House, Salem, Mass. 

»3S "M.ARiEMONT," Newport, R. I. 

■36 "The Elms," Newport, R. I. 

\37 "Vernon Court," Newport, R. I. 

• 38 "Villaserra," Warren, R. I. 

-39 "WooDsiDE," Hartford, Conn. 

■40 "Elmwood," Pomfret, Conn. 

>4i Pomfret Centre, Conn. 

"^42 "Branford House," Groton, Conn. 

^43 Pomfret Centre, Conn. 

-^^■^ > Auburn, N. Y. ■ 

^46 Section of a Wild Garden at Tuxedo Park, N. Y. 

^47 "Woodland," Tuxedo, N. Y. 

48 " Cragswerthe," Tuxedo, N. Y. 

'49 "Blithewood," Barrytown-on-Hudson, N. Y. 

^ } "Wodenethe," Beacon-on-Hudson, N. Y. 

-si] • 

^^ > The Author's Childhood Garden, Newburgh-on-Hudson, N. Y. 

w53 J 

\54 "Echo Lawn," Newburgh-on-Hudson, N. Y. 

-55 I "Meadowburn," Warwick, N. Y. 

-57 "Ridgeland Farm," Bedford, N. Y. 
-58 Southampton, L. I. 

-59] 

i.° >"The Orchard," Southampton, L. I. 
01 ' ' 

-62] 

X 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

PLATE 

ig^r'THE Appleteees," Southampton, L. I. 

•65 Southampton, L. I. 
■^66 ] 

East Hampton, L. I. 



•>68 



70 "Manor House," Glen Cove, L. I. 
'71 Cedarhurst, L. I. 
^72 Westbury, L. I. 
-73 "Manor House," Glen Cove, L. I. 
-74 "Sylvester Manor," Shelter Island. 
-75 "Cherrycroft," Morristown, N. J. 
-76 "RiDGEWooD Hill," Morristown, N. J. 
-77 Morristown, N. J. 
-78] 

■ 79 }■ " Blairsden," Peapack, N. T. 
-80 J 

-81 "Brooklawn," Short Hills, N. J. 

-82 1 

-83 [ "Drumthwacket," Princeton, N. T 

-84J 

-85 "Onunda," Madison, N. J. 

-86 "Glen Alpine," Morristown, N. J. 

-87 "Thornton," Rumson, N. J. 

•88 Highland, N. J. 

'89 "Allgates," Haverford, Pa. 

'^ > Andalusia, Pa. 

-92 "Edgecombe," Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. 
V93 "Krisheim," Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. 
'^"^ I "Willow Bank," Bryn Mawr, Pa. 

-96 "Fancy Field," Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. 

-97 "Timberline," Bryn Mawr, Pa. 

-98 "Ballygarth," Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, Pa. 

-99 "Hampton," Towson, Md. 

-100 "Evergreen-on-Avenue," Baltimore, Md. 

-loi "Cylburn House," Cylburn, Baltimore Co., Md. 

xi 



ILLUSTRATIONS 



PUTE 



\io2 "Ingleside," Catonsville, Md. 
^103 "The Blind," Havre de Grace, Md. 
ao4 j 

l'^^^ > MONTPELIER, ^'A. 

^107 J 

\^° ^"RosE Hill," Greenwood, Va. 
^109 J ' ' 

-no "Meadowbrook M/UsroK," DRE^\^RY's BLurr, Va. 

Ill Richmond, Va. 

II- i "Magnolia G.vrden," Ch.-vrleston, S. C. 
^113/ 

-114 1 

-115 [ "Preston Garden," Columbia, S. C. 

-116 J 

-117] 

'iiS > "Green Court," Augusta, Ga. 

'I19J 

^120 Tropical Growth, Palm Beach, Fla. 

■121 "R0STRE\-0R," K.NOXVILLE, TeNN. 

•122 Longview, Tenn. 

-123 "Hazelwood," Kinloch, ^Io. 

124 Lake Forest, III. 

-125 "H.^RDiN Hall," Hubb.vrd's Wood, III. 

"The Farms," INIonticello, III. 

■The Rock G.^\rden, "Englishton P.\rk," Lexington, Ind. 

"GwiXN," Clevel.and, Oin-o. 

^131! 

^ 132 }■ Clifton, Cincinnati, Ohio. 

- 133 J 

'134 " Sh.\dyside," Painesville, Ohio. 

^i y "Indian Hill, Mentor, Oiho. 
■ 136 I 
137 "Okch.-vrd House," Alma, Mich. 

13S "Garra-tigh,"' Bay City, Mich. 

'139 "F.URL.A.WN," Grosse Points Shores, jSIich. 



■.126 


•127 


^128 


'129 


^130 



• 140 \ i 

xu 



House-in-the-Woods," L.AKE Geneva, Wis. 

141 J 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

PLATE 

. 142 Las Cruces, N. M. 

4j I "KiMBEELY Crest," Redlands, Cal. 
-144/ 

.145 "Glendessary," Santa Barb/vea, Cal. 



146] 
147 "Pi 



47 "PiR/VNHURST," Santa Barbara, Cal. 
-148 J 
149 Ross, Cal. 
-150 Pasadena, Cal. 
,-151' 

■»■ T C "7 -^ 

V ^" > "Canon Crest Park," Redlands, Cal. 

"^153 ' ' ■ 

"^154. 

'^155 Tytical Growth in California. 

"^156 ] 

■^157 \ "Thornewood," Tacoma, Wash. 

'^■158 J 

/■■^J^ > Seattle, Wash. 

-161 Section oe a Rose PIedge Bordering an Avenue in Portland, 

Ore. 
-162 "Rosecrest," Portland Heights, Portland, Ore. 
>i63 "Cliff Cottage," Elk Rock, Portland, Ore. 
^164 "High Hatch," Riverwood, Portland, Ore. 

'.^rr \ Victoria City, Vancouver Island, B. C. 

-167 LoNGViEW, Tenn. 

-168 "Knock-Mae-Cree," Westport, Conn. 

-169 



Hamilton House," South Berwick, Maine. 

^'^ >"Glen Alpine," Morristown, N. J. 

.173 East Hampton, L. I. 

'174 "Glendessary," Santa Barbara, Cal. 

-175 "Clifton," Cincinnati, Ohio. 

-176 "Thornewood," Tacoma, Wash. 

\ Title-Page: East Hampton, L. I., Albert Herter, Esq. 
From a photograph by Jessie Tarbox Beals. 



XUl 



A GARDEN was wonderful at night — a place of 
strange silences and yet stranger sound: trees 
darkly guarding mysterious paths that ran into 
caverns of darkness ; the scents of flowers rising from 
damp earth heavy with dew; flowers that were weary 
with the dust and noise of the day and slept gently, 
gratefully, with their heads drooping to the soil, their 
petals closed by the tender hands of the spirits of the 
garden. The night sounds were strangely musical. Cries 
that were discordant in the day mingled now with the 
rtmning of distant water, the last notes of some bird 
before it slept, the measured harmony of a far-away 
bell, the gentle rustle of some arrival in the thickets; 
the voice that could not be heard in the noisy chatter 
of the day rose softly now in a little song of the night 
and the dark trees and the silver firelight of the stars." 

— Hugh Walpole. 



FOREWORD 

Books and magazines written by and for American 
architects usually show in their illustrations fine imita- 
tions of lovely French, English, and Italian formaUsm and 
works of art in marble or other stone ornamenting the 
gardens of great mansions in this country. 

The object of this book is to present, more particularly, 
another type of garden, demonstrating the cultured Amer- 
ican's love of beauty expressed through plant life rather 
than in stone; showing the development of his ideal in 
more original directions, when planning for himself the 
garden spot in which he is to live rather than when 
building wholly in imitation of some accepted type of 
classic art. 

With but few exceptions, these illustrations are of a 
class which might be called personal gardens. The at- 
tractive features in nearly every view speak so eloquently 
for themselves that there seems but little need of detailed 
verbal description of each beautiful spot. 

In covering all sections of the country, occasion is given 
for the observation and study of widely varying climatic 

XV 



FOREWORD 

conditions, the results of which the author has also sought 
to consider. 

Some difficulty has been felt in properly ascribing the 
ownership of a number of the gardens illustrated. As a 
rule, there is but one recognized director of the garden's 
welfare — rarely are two members of a household equally 
interested. While he is by custom acknowledged master 
of the house, it is oftener she who rules supreme among 
the flowers. Misnaming the real possessor might be a 
serious mistake; attributing the ownership to two is 
superfluous; the benefit, where any doubt existed, has 
been therefore given to the fair sex, with due apology for 
possible errors. 

Louise Shelton. 

MOEEISTOWN, N. J., . 

October 2$,, 1915. 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 
IN AMERICA 



A GARDEN 

Come not with careless feet 

To tread my garden's unfrequented ways. 
No highroad this, no busy clanging street, 

No place of petty shows and fond displays. 
Here there are blossoms sweet 

That shrink and pine from inconsiderate gaze; 
And here the birds repeat 

Only to loving ears their truest lays. 
Hither I can retreat 

And drink of peace where peace unravished stays. 
Herein are streams of sorrow no man knows — 
Herein a well of joy inviolate flows; 
Come not with careless feet 
To soil my garden's sanctuary ways. 

— Anonymous. 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS 
IN AMERICA 

I 

THE GARDEN AND ITS MEANING 

A world without flowers ! What would it be ? Among 
those who know, such a question needs no answer — and 
we are not seeking a reply from the uninitiated who, for 
lack of understanding and sympathy, can but gaze at us 
with wondering pity, when our gardens cause us to over- 
look so much that to them means life. But is there any 
life more real than the life in the garden for those who 
actually take part in its creation and nurture it carefully 
week by week and year by year? If, owing to this ab- 
sorbing occupation, we fail to give a full share of our- 
selves to some of the social avocations of the busy world 
are we to be pitied for getting "back to the soil" to which 
we belong? Man was put by the Creator "in the Garden 
of Eden to dress it and to keep it," and even after his 
forced departure therefrom he was bidden to "till the 
ground," and the reward seems great to us who know the 
meaning of the signs and wonders continually being re- 
vealed in the garden world. 

1 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

In seeking the simpler life which many are now craving, 
if luxuries are blessings that we could do without, must we 
count the flower garden a luxury? Not while its beauty 
is a joy in which others may share, nor when it helps to 
keep at home our interests which make the real home. 
There is a luxury that often induces the roaming spirit, 
and doubtless were there fewer motors there would be 
still more gardens and incidentally more home life. Yet 
notwithstanding this temptation to roam, gardens are 
now on the increase in almost every section of the United 
States. We have made a brave beginning of which to 
be justly proud. 

If only we could live in the world more as we live in 
the garden, what joy and contentment would be brought 
into the daily life ! In the garden hurry and noise are 
needless, for perfect system can prevail where each plant, 
each labor has its own especial time, and where haste is 
a stranger, quiet reigns. It is in the stillness of the green 
world that we hear the sounds that make for peace and 
growth. In the garden, too, we labor faithfully, as best 
we know how, in following rules that promise good results. 
Then at a certain time we must stand aside, consciously 
trusting to the source of life to do the rest. With hopeful 
eyes we watch and wait, while the mysterious unseen spirit 
brings life into plant and tree. When something goes 
wrong, how sublime is our cheerful garden philosophy, as 
smiling we say: "Just wait until we try next year!" And 
patiently we try again, and ever patiently, sometimes again 

2 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

and yet again. Our unwritten motto is: "If others can, 
then why not we?" Even the man who "contends that 
God is not" shows all this wondrous reliance in the unseen 
force within his garden. 

With hands plunged into the cool earth we seem to 
bury in the magic soil all thoughts that jar till we almost 
feel ourselves a part of the garden plan; as much in har- 
mony with it as the note of the bird, the soft splash of the 
fountain, the tints of the flowers and their perfumes. 
This idea is better expressed in four lines found inscribed 
on an old garden seat: 

" The kiss of the sun for pardon, 
The song of the birds for mirth, 
One is nearer God's heart in a garden 
Than anywhere else on earth." 

It is not a selfish life — the object in view is not a 
narrow one. How few would be content to create a beau- 
tiful garden if none could see ! And our pleasure is not 
complete until others have shared its sweetness with us. 
The gardener is developing nature in the simplest and 
truest way, following the thought of the first great Archi- 
tect and gladdening the hearts of men with the vision 
beautiful of the possibilities within plant life. In the flower 
garden the efforts are for upbuilding, for giving back some 
of the beauty intended in the Perfect Plan, too often de- 
faced by man's heedlessness. 

Dating back their beginning some two hundred years in 

3 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

certain Southern States, numerous gardens, beautiful with 
age, tell the story of the ardent garden lovers of earlier 
days, who had to send abroad for their green treasures 
which they planted and carefully tended, hopefully plan- 
ning for the future. Many such gardens with their choice 
shrubs and trees still stand as green memorials to those 
long-ago people who had time and money for this luxury. 
Since then the hardships following war have brought sad 
neglect to the beautiful places — the number we can never 
guess — many of which, however, are now being aroused to 
fresh life by new owners who appreciate the charm and 
dignity of an ancient home. 

Hidden away in some of the old plantations of the 
South, and scattered over the Eastern States, near Phila- 
delphia, along the Hudson River, and in parts of Mas- 
sachusetts, the best of the older gardens are found. 
Beautiful, too, while often beyond reach of the camera, 
are many of the more modern creations so skilfully and 
lovingly fashioned by men and women of later genera- 
tions. It is impossible to do justice in photography to 
some of them when certain conditions prevent the camera 
from being placed at a range favorable to getting a view 
of the larger portions in one photograph. Sometimes 
they are composed of three or four connecting sections, 
each bringing a surprised delight to the visitor passing 
from one to the other, but such an arrangement cannot 
be satisfactorily portrayed in a picture. 

One strange reason why some American gardens are 

4 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

not photographed for the public is that occasionally people 
are found who will not share their blessings with others 
less fortunate; who jealously keep in seclusion all the 
wealth of nature's sweetness contained in their garden 
plot. 

After all, is not the delight which belongs to a garden 
but a bit of borrowed glory from the Creator of sunlight, 
and of the kingdom of flowers? If a garden is worthy of 
showing to our intimates, can we close it to the stranger 
who may need even more to breathe inspiration from its 
peace and loveliness? The foreign custom of opening the 
fine places to the public on stated days is one that we 
should freely emulate. And to those who may not come 
to the gardens, what a boon is photography, especially in 
color, placing in our very hands the beauty that we crave! 

The views contained within this book show gardens 
that were planned, with but few exceptions, by their owners, 
earnestly laboring to express their sense of the beautiful 
in these their outdoor homes. And so great is the individ- 
uality evinced in most of them that there are hardly two 
gardens that resemble one another; for the differences 
in gardens are as many as the endless number of varying 
characters written in the faces of men. Both are stamped 
with the spirit behind them. In visiting gardens it is not 
difficult to distinguish between the ones fashioned by 
"love's labor" and those made by the practical gardener. 

More and more we are getting away from the cold, stilf 
planting of Canna, Coleus, and Salvia. Few of us can 

5 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

tolerate the impression of newness and rigidity in the 
garden, and as Father Time cannot help us fast enough we 
try to emulate him by stamping his mark of mellowness 
in innumerable ways upon the youthful garden. Then 
Mother Earth is consulted as to her unrivalled way for 
the grouping of her flower family, and she shows us the 
close company they keep — hand in hand over the whole 
meadow — nothing stands quivering alone, grasses and 
plants blending to fill all spaces. Then above, in the rain- 
bow, we learn the harmony for our color scheme, and unto 
no nation on earth need we apply for the latest theories 
dealing with these subjects for the beautifying of our 
gardens. The more of the nature scheme we bring into 
them the greater satisfaction will they give. 

We should build the garden \vith a setting of fine trees 
grouped upon the outskirts, othermse it will seem as in- 
complete as a portrait without a frame. Half of the charm 
attached to the beautiful old gardens of Europe lies in 
the richness of their backgrounds of stately hedges and 
trees. 

If comparisons were to be made between such views as 
those shown in this book and the pictures of English gar- 
dens, for instance, the differences would not in every case 
be favorable to England, although it must be admitted 
that age has given a dignity and grandeur to many Eng- 
lish gardens that could hardly be surpassed. Time, doubt- 
less, will add this dignity to our gardens, but can we not 
feel that we have already equalled some of the smaller 

6 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

English gardens when we consider the poetical beauty 
found in most of these illustrations? 

Unfortunately, except in a few localities, our climate 
does not encourage the perfect development of the choicest 
of the evergreen hedge-plants, and yet with time we can 
produce some moderately fine effects in hedges. We may 
not hope soon to rival the best of the foreign gardens that 
have been maturing through generations of continuous 
care. Favored not only by climate but by riches unknown 
to the early landowners of our States, the best of the old 
gardens across the sea stand for the combined dreams of 
the many minds which gradually evolved them, the loving 
handiwork of innumerable patient toilers who have succes- 
sively ministered to them. 

Just as there are gardens peculiar to other nations, 
Dutch, French, Italian, etc., might we not give serious 
consideration to evolving some day a type peculiarly 
American, inasmuch as it would embody the poetic and 
artistic sense of our country? Such a result might be at- 
tained even should we claim the privilege of our individual 
liberty, to plant, each one for the expression of his own 
soul, thus keeping our gardens distinctly variable and 
original in type, and so ultimately national. 



II 

CLIMATE IN AMERICA 

Few subjects are more bewildering than that of climate 
in the United States, and its effect on gardens in different 
sections is an ever interesting study. Replying to the 
question as to which locality in the East might be said 
to have the longest continued flowering period, an expert 
in the Agricultural Department writes: "The question of 
plant life in relation to climate is a very large one and one 
about which it is hard to generalize without close study in 
the various parts of the country. Some little work along 
these lines is being attempted, but as yet we have been 
unable to make any report upon it." 

Correspondence with gardeners in the various States 
has furnished the brief data given in connection with the 
following chapters, showing that the local conditions as 
affecting garden culture are much more encouraging in 
some places than in others. 

Not only are there the matters of latitude and altitude 
to be considered, but often quite as important is the influ- 
ence of the Gulf Stream in the Atlantic or of the Japan 
Current in the Pacific Ocean. Again, there is the moist 
climate by the sea, or the quality of soil, the periodic tor- 

8 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

rential rainfall of one section, and elsewhere the long 
months of drought. 

Generally speaking, our country is, in most parts, a 
land of sunshine, with usually sufficient rain and mois- 
ture to benefit plant life, and while we grumble at our 
sudden changes in temperature, how few of us realize 
the blessing of an abundant sunshine pervading the "great 
outdoors" and incidentally the gardens! 

Nowhere do flowers grow more luxuriantly, in greater 
variety, or through a season more prolonged than on the 
coasts of Oregon, Washington, and California, — soil, mois- 
ture, and temperature combining to make gardening a 
simpler task than it is elsewhere. The shore country of 
Southern California is a perpetual garden, with a climate 
almost unrivalled for plants and for humans. North of 
San Francisco the near approach of the Japan Current 
produces a climate quite similar to that of England, and 
with the exception of possibly two months (and even then 
an occasional Rose may bloom) flowers are found all the 
year round. This favored section of the Northwest never- 
theless is not visited with as much sunshine as is found 
elsewhere, but its gardens blossom with little assistance 
save from the frequent rainfall, more welcome to plants 
than to men. 

In Kansas and the other fiat and fertile States of the 
Middle West the garden period, on account of the long, 
dry summers, is usually limited to the weeks from late 
March to late June. In the more northern temperature 

9 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

of the lake region gardens which flourish all summer are 
numerous. 

The Atlantic States have a shorter blooming season 
than those on the Pacific coast. Throughout the South, 
east of New Mexico, the warm weather season is as pro- 
longed as on the Pacific coast, and yet in the Southern 
States garden bloom is checked half-way through the 
summer by excessive heat and drought (except in the 
favored mountainous localities), which at least interrupt 
the continuous succession of flowers. For this reason gar- 
dening in the South except in spring, or in high altitudes, 
is generally discouraged. 

Although not stated as an indisputable fact, scientifi- 
cally, we are inclined to beUeve that the seacoast section 
of the Maryland peninsula is the locality in the East 
especially favorable to the most prolonged season of bloom. 
Lying between sea and bay, this particular district in the 
latitude for early spring and late frost enjoys also the bene- 
fit of surrounding waters, escaping thereby the parching 
summer climate from which gardens of the interior suffer, 
to the west and south and to the north, almost as far as 
Philadelphia. 

In Maine conditions are different; April and May gar- 
dens are conspicuously absent. The flower season gen- 
erally begins in mid- June and does not much exceed three 
months, but in that period the bloom is exceptionally 
luxuriant. The season is necessarily a short one, as it is 
throughout this latitude westward to Oregon, where after 

10 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

reaching the Coast or Cascade Range there is a change and 
the cUmate becomes more Hke that of England than Maine. 
Along the Atlantic coast from Maine to New Jersey, where 
the climate is ideal for flowers, the greatest proportion of 
Eastern gardens may be found, on the shore and inland as 
well. 

So much for the general climatic effects upon flowers 
of the more populous districts of our vast country. A 
few lines will suffice to treat the climate question in con- 
nection with hedge-plants. 

While the summer climate in the Southern States has 
not generally a salutary effect upon the flowers, yet it has 
favored the best development of Boxwood, Holly, and 
certain other choice shrubs and trees, which do not thrive 
well north of Philadelphia. Fine specimens of Boxwood 
are rare sights in New England, where the more severe 
winters have from time to time destroyed the top growth. 
Many old New England gardens show the characteristic 
Box-edged path, but the shrub is usually not over two feet 
high, and is likely to remain so unless eventually the 
winter climate should moderate. Boxwood is seen on the 
Pacific coast, north of San Francisco, but not to the south, 
where Cypress is popular. There is little Boxwood in the 
latitude of New York City, except for edgings, where for 
tall hedges Privet, Arbor- Vita, Hemlock, and Spruce are 
probaby the most reliable evergreens. Arbor-Vita is un- 
likely to live longer than seventy years. 

Although all of our States are not represented in this 

11 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

volume, these views are taken so generally from almost 
every section that the climatic conditions describing one 
State may usually stand as well at least for the States im- 
mediately adjoining. The only section of the Union omitted 
is that part through which ran the Rocky Mountains. 
As a rule, this part of the country is not in its nature open 
to the cultivation of formal gardens, although its wild 
flora is remarkable enough to deserve special treatment. 

In the brief chapters to follow there will be given more 
detail relating to climate, in order that we fellow gardeners 
in all parts of the Union may know something more about 
one another's garden program, our several problems, and 
our privileges in this outdoor life that we lead. 



12 



ni 

NEW ENGLAND 

With dreams of the English gardens ever before them, 
our Pilgrim fathers and mothers brought flower and vege- 
table seeds to the new land, and the earliest entries in old 
Plymouth records contain mention of "garden plotes."* 
John Josselyn, fifty years later, wrote a book called "New 
England Rarities Discovered," including a list of plants 
originally brought from old England, mentioning those 
suitable or not for this climate, and showing that our an- 
cestors had lost no time in planting not only vegetables for 
the benefit of their bodies but flowers as well for the cheer 
of their souls. 

The New England States naturally have the largest 
representation in this book, owing to the fact that the 
climate of numerous Western and Southern States causes 
many of the inhabitants to find summer homes near the 
North Atlantic seaboard. It is not that the New Eng- 
lander is a more ardent gardener, but rather that ardent 
gardeners from elsewhere are tempted by the soil and 
climate to join the Easterners in creating these flower 
"plotes," which beautify hundreds of hamlets in this sec- 

* Quoted from "Old Time Gardens," by Alice Morse Earle. 

13 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

tion. On the coast particularly flowers grow most luxuri- 
antly, even within a few hundred yards of the surf, where 
snug gardens protected by windbreak hedges blossom as 
serenely as in an inland meadow. Not long ago most 
people believed that gardening or gardens near the sea 
were an impossibility; but when they realized the hardiness 
of certain dense shrubs that make perfect hedges and wind- 
breaks, gardens on the shore sprang rapidly into existence, 
and we of the inland are apt to envy nature's partiality to 
seaside flowers. 

MAINE 

At Bar Harbor on the island of Mount Desert, Maine, 
as in other places of this latitude, the season, of course, 
begins later and ends sooner than near New York City. 
The flowering period is from five to six weeks shorter at 
Bar Harbor. However, the wonderful summer climate 
somewhat atones for this briefer season, and the gardens 
of Maine can boast of unusual luxuriance, in richness of 
color and size of plants, with but little heat or prolonged 
drought to affect their best development. The hardier 
seeds sown in the open will germinate in mid-May; tender 
annuals in June; the plants of tender annuals go out soon 
after June 10. Daffodils appear about May 15, followed 
by late Tulips; German Iris appears in the week of June 
10; Sweet William and Roses in early July; Delphinium in 
mid- July, and Hollyhocks about July 28. Late Phlox is 
at its best by mid- August. 

14 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

Thus the plants beginning to bloom near New York 
City in May and early June do not, on account of the 
colder spring, appear at Bar Harbor for several weeks to 
come, when they unite their bloom with the flowers of 
a later period. The slow-coming spring retards earlier 
bloom, but has less effect on that of midsummer. The 
summer residents owning gardens in Maine rarely arrive 
much before the last of June, and consequently such early 
bloomers as Tulips, etc., are not seen as often as in the 
milder climates. In this northern State frost usually de- 
stroys the garden by September 15. 

Not only is it possible to grow all the favorite flowers 
along the shore, but even on the islands lying off the coast 
of Maine there are innumerable little gardens, such as 
those at Isleborough, which revel in the moist sea climate 
of midsummer and blossom most satisfactorily until frost. 
At this point it is interesting to contrast the climate of the 
North Atlantic section with the region directly across the 
continent along the Pacific coast, where at Vancouver's 
Island, for instance, plant life enjoys a climate similar to 
that of England, with a growing season quite as pro- 
longed. 

There are beautiful gardens at Bar Harbor, on the es- 
tates along the shore as well as farther inland. Most of 
them, screened by fine growths of trees and shrubbery 
from view of the highway, are equally well protected from 
sea-winds, blooming luxuriantly in spite of the fact that 
not very long ago the best authorities believed that gar- 

15 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

dens on this shore could never prosper. Two of the most 
noted at Mount Desert are shown in the following pages. 

At Kenarden Lodge the garden in the clear atmosphere 
of this northern climate is most beautiful in form and 
coloring, and its background of distant hills combines to 
intensify the charm of this famous place, which is in bloom 
all summer. The centre beds are filled with annuals in 
prevailing colors of pink, blue, and white, noticeably Snap- 
dragon, Ageratum, Sweet Alyssum, pink Geranium, and 
Begonia. Planted in masses, these and other dependable 
annuals blossom as long as needed. The broad green sod 
paths act as a setting to the delicate hues covering the 
beds. The perennials are banked against the vine-covered 
walls. 

The Blair Eyrie garden on the High Brook Road is 
equally inviting and contains many other attractive fea- 
tures beyond the limits of this restricted view. Peace- 
fully retired behind its boundaries of trimmed hedge and 
dense woodland, it must always delight the flower lover. 
Perennials abound with a good supply of enlivening an- 
nuals. Its surroundings of evergreen trees are in strong 
contrast to the brilliant tones of Phlox, Lilies, Hydrangeas, 
and Hollyhocks, and this garden as seen from an upper 
terrace is a blaze of lovely color framed in green. 

In southern Maine the garden at Hamilton House has 
no rival in that section of New England. The hand of an 
artist has wrought a perfect scheme delightfully in ac- 
cord with an ideal environment; but pictures cannot do 

16 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

it justice. Within the grassy court of the main garden the 
several small open beds are filled with groups of annuals. 
The rear beds contain tall-growing perennials mixed with 
some annuals. There are weeks when the garden is all 
pink, and again all blue and white. It is surrounded on 
three sides \vith most artistic pergolas, from one side of 
which the view down the Piscataqua River is a pictur- 
esque feature. Stone steps on another side lead to an 
upper garden filled with bloom surrounding a quaint and 
ancient little building kept as a studio. In isolation, 
simplicity, and ripeness the atmosphere of the whole place 
breathes of olden days, and might well be taken as a 
model for a perfect American garden. Its gates may be 
seen in a later section. 



17 




a 
o 



o 

o 



o 
an 



o 



05 



NEW HAMPSHIRE AND VERMONT 

Side by side, these twin States have much in common — 
climate, mountains, and old historical associations included. 
Owing to the short, cool summers of this latitude and alti- 
tude, there may be less attention given to flowers than in 
other parts of New England. But the few illustrations in 
the following pages are fine evidences of garden art, at least 
in the region of Cornish, the abode of artists, and where 
gardens are plentiful. The season opens about four weeks 
later than near New York City, and in early September 
frost lays waste the splendid bloom while still in its prime. 
Although flowers are slow in appearing, a perfection of 
growth later makes up for lost time. In fact, climatic 
conditions are so favorable to summer plants that, once 
started, the garden tasks are lighter than in warmer cli- 
mates, where drought and pests are more prevalent. 

Possibly the most famous of Cornish gardens is that 
of Charles A. Piatt, Esq., whose beautiful gardens in sev- 
eral States are numerous and noted. His own hillside 
place is a labyrinth of flowers, admirably suiting the en- 
vironment, spacious and dignified in its rich simplicity. 

Perfectly in accord also with the atmosphere of this 
mountain country is the lovely garden of Stephen Par- 
rish, Esq., delightfully unique and suggesting a little Eng- 
lish garden. This enclosure of flowers is but a section of 
a broader plan where pool, grass, and trees are pleasant 
factors. 

27 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

Mrs. Hyde's garden is a mass of bloom composed chiefly 
of the longest-lived annuals and giving a charming color 
effect to this picturesque spot. 

The best gardens of Vermont, Avith its still greater area 
of uplands, are probably those in and around Manchester 
and Bennington. They are usually of the simplest char- 
acter, and lovely under the personal care of devoted 
owners. One worthy of special attention is seen in the 
view of Longmeadow garden, which is an example of the 
great value of trees as a background, and a strong argu- 
ment in their behalf- As a gem needs a setting, so the 
flowers, in even the most modest planting, are doubly fair 
when framed in luxuriant green. 



28 





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PLATE 7 



Cornish, N. H. Charles A. Piatt, Esq. 




From photographs by Jessie Tarbox Beats 



PLATE 8 



Cornish, N. H. Mrs. George Rublee 




From a pholograph by Jessie Tarbox Seals 



Cornish, N. H. Stephen Parrish, Esq. 



PLATE 9 




From a pliolograph by Jessie Tarbox Beds 



PLATE 10 



Cornish, N. H. Mrs. William H. Hvde 




PLATE 11 



Old Bennington, Vt. Mrs. James A. Eddy 



MASSACHUSETTS 

Probably no other section of the Union contains as 
many gardens, old and new, as does this fertile State, 
combining the advantages natural to the altitude of the 
beautiful Berkshires with the favorable climate of the 
coast. People representing nearly every State help to 
form the summer colonies of New England, more espe- 
cially in Massachusetts. Everywhere the luxuriance of 
bloom is very marked and most noticeable on the coast, 
where all plants, especially certain less long-lived annuals 
like Poppies, Salpiglossis, and Mallows, reach their limit 
of perfection and continue at their best for an unusual pe- 
riod. In the latitude of Boston the season starts two weeks 
later than near New York City, and the gardens, begin- 
ning in the German Iris period, open about the fifth of 
June. The Sweet William and its contemporaries follow 
by late June; the Delphinium period is early July; Holly- 
hocks come about July 20. Tender annuals can be safely 
planted out soon after June 1. 

The garden season in the hill country opens a few 
days later than at Boston, and in the Berkshires the 
frost is apt to destroy the garden before September 20. 
Where the thermometer may drop occasionally to twenty 
degrees below zero, ample winter covering is necessary, 
and snow adds its still better protection to the plants 
during most of the winter months. The average summer 
heat is not excessive and, although droughts must some- 

37 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

times be reckoned with, the water supply is generally 
sufficient. 

It would be a serious matter to attempt to name the 
best gardens in this State, for who could judge where such 
an infinite variety exists? At least some of the best ex- 
amples in photography can be given, although each \dew 
but hints at the fuller beauty to be found in the garden 
itself. 

Of the many wonderful gardens in Massachusetts pos- 
sibly the most remarkable of all is Weld, in Brookline, 
which is kno^vn to gardeners far and wide. There is noth- 
ing in America more extensive and more richly planted. 
The numerous beds are filled with bloom for many weeks, 
and each bed contains a massing of one variety, whether 
perennials or annuals, which, when it has finished flowering, 
is replaced by something of another period. The French 
features in the garden are prominent and the planting 
may be considered American in some respects — altogether 
a most pleasant combination. 

Of a distinctly opposite t^^je but equally delightful is 
Holm Lea, near Brookline, and a score of photographs 
would be necessary to depict this place of flowering shrubs 
and perennial bloom bordering the \\inding grass paths 
leading from one lo^^ely spot to another. 

An extremely interesting and unusual type in America 
is the stately green garden at Wellesley, at this time 
without a rival in its particular style of planting. Be- 
cause of its frequent appearance in various magazines 

38 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

of the country it is too well known to need further de- 
scription. 

Of still another class and very beautiful is one of the 
most noted gardens in the Berkshires planned entirely by 
the owner of Fairlawn, Lenox. It is a series of formal 
gardens, in coloring and setting most perfectly devised. 
But how useless a photographic description when applied 
to a combination of gardens spread over one or two acres ! 
Several pools and many old shade-trees play an important 
part, and its charm is still more enhanced by the wide view 
of the distant hills fitting so perfectly into the garden 
scheme. 

Three fine illustrations of Belle fontaine but feebly 
suggest the beauty of a place made of splendid gardens, 
pools, and temple, long shaded grass walks lined with 
statuary and other features of Roman art, blending with 
the natural attractions of this estate. Gardens, lawns, 
and ponds have the rich woodlands as background, the 
hedges and shrubs are developed maturely, and everywhere 
there are charming effects in "green life." Most of this 
work, it is interesting to add, has been accomplished under 
the direction of the owner. 

Picturesque indeed are other Lenox gardens, including 
White Lodge. The latter place is noted for its little white 
garden enclosed in a tall green hedge, and the main garden, 
especially in June and August, contains a delicious color 
scheme. Broad grass steps are another feature of the place. 
Views were not obtainable in time for this volume. 

39 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

At Fernbrooke is found the garden of an artist and 
sculptor, a stud\' in color and in garden design most 
artistically^ planned, but rambling enough to prevent a 
connected view in photography. Golden Italian gourds 
pendent from tlie pergolas; standard currant bushes 
bordering a path and covered with red berries as late as 
September; dwarf fniit trees too. used decora tively, are 
among the happy points of interest. 

The scheme of the garden of a famous sculptor at 
Chesterwood, in Glendale. is not as dependent on flowers 
as on the well-considered adjustment of garden equipment 
to the natural beaut\- of the emaronment. Sunshine min- 
gling Nnth the shadows of the spreading trees plays its 
part by gi^*ing life and color in changeful tones to the old 
stone seat and fountain. The vine-co\'ered arch frames a 
■\dew of the flower-bordered path which fades away into a 
woodland, and these ^^dth other sights gladsome to lovers 
of such art have given Chesterwood its place in the ranks 
of beautiful gardens. 

At Riverside Farm, o^'erhanging the beautiful Ty- 
ringham \'alle>', and possessing possibly the most wonder- 
ful of all Berkshire \'iews, is the dainty garden sho\\Ti in 
the accompanying illustrations. It is the work of an artist, 
and trvily a place of delight. The garden nestles to the 
hillside, enclosed in a low stone wall. On one side the 
sloping hill do\\ii which winding rough stone steps de- 
scend to the garden; on another side a rustic pergola and 
pool; the third side a line of old apple trees overhanging 

40 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

the wall; the fourth side contains the simple entrance, 
and beyond the boundaries on all three sides — the won- 
derful view. 

At Naumkeag, Stockbridge, the formal garden full of 
bloom, which is part of a larger plan, has a wide-spread 
reputation. It is especially noted for its battlement-cut 
hedge, and has as an accessory a splendid landscape back- 
ground, so common to the Berkshires and so desirable to 
the garden beautiful. "Naumkeag" is the Indian name 
for Salem, meaning "Haven of Rest." 

Recently completed at Great Barrington, the spacious 
garden at Brookside is the best piece of Italian work in this 
section. The accompanying illustration gives but a faint 
idea of its size, its flowers, and its many other fine points. 

The two pictures illustrating the garden at Overloch, 
Wenham, and at Rock Maple Farm, Hamilton, are still 
other good examples of the variety and charm of the 
flower planting of this coast State. Both of these views 
are unique, and in fact how seldom do we find sameness in 
gardens ! 

Mr. Longfellow's place at Cambridge, Doctor Weld's at 
Brookline, and The Witch's Place at Salem are typical 
of New England — the paths all edged with Box, which 
shrub, on account of frost blights, has never attained 
great height. These gardens are just simple, lovable lit- 
tle places filled with shadows and sunshine, some flowers, 
and the good scent of Box, which latter always seems so 
especially essential to old gardens. 

41 




"Fairlawn" 




From autochrome pJiolographs 

"Fairlawn," Lenox, Mass. Miss Kneeland 




From a photograph by Thomas Marr and Son 

"Weld," Brookline, Mass. Mrs. Larz Anderson 



PLATE 13 




From a p!wtOi;raph by Thomas Marr and Son 

"Weld," Brookline, Mass. Mrs. Larz Anderson 



PLATE 14 




From a photograph by Wiirts Bros. 



PLATE 15 



Wellesley, Mass. H. H. Hunnewell, Esq. 



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From photograph by The J. Horace MfFarland Co. 

"Holm Lea," Brookline, Mass. Professor C. S. Sargent 



PLATE 16 




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From a pholograph by Miss M. H. Northend 

"Overloch," Wenham, Mass. J. A. Burnham, Esq. 



PLATE 23 




From a photograph by Jessie J\i>l>ox iicals 

"Fernbrooke," Lenox, Mass. Thomas Shields Clark, Esq. 



PLATE 24 




PLATE 26 



"Riverside Farm," Tyringham, Mass. Mrs. Banyer Clarkson 




From photographs by Jessie Tarbox Beats 

"Riverside Farm," Tyringham, Mass. Mrs. Banyer Clarkson 



PLATE 27 




From a plioloKraph by The J . Floracc McFarland Co. 

Longfellow's Garden, Cambridge, Mass. 



PLATE 33 



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From a pholosraph by G. A. S pence 



PLATE 34 



Old Witch House, Salem, Mass. 



RHODE ISLAND 

Limited space permits but a suggestion of the various 
types of planting along the Atlantic coast, which promises 
to become almost a continuous garden by the sea from 
New Jersey to Maine. Rhode Island contains some of the 
most magnificent places in the country, the majority of 
them situated near bay or sea, where they thrive in con- 
genial environment. The quality of the climate as it af- 
fects plant life will be easily realized after reading of the 
climatic conditions of Massachusetts as well as of those 
to the south, on Long Island, for instance. 

The older gardens are found in the vicinity of Provi- 
dence, while at Narragansett and Newport those of a later 
period abound. Newport by the sea, more famous than 
any other American summer resort, naturally possesses 
the greatest number of gardens on an elaborate scale. 
The coast at this point is somewhat sheltered, the air is 
mild, and there is sea moisture so beneficial to flowers. 
Windbreaks of hedges or walls are used where the winds 
blow strong off the water. 

Lovely and lovingly planned is the garden at Marie- 
mont, a poetical spot, overflowing with color and sun- 
shine, yet with shadowy retreats, and the stillness that 
belongs to an enclosure of grass paths. It might be 
taken for a bit of foreign garden from any part of the 
world, and possesses a quality of beauty of which one 
could never tire. The long, broad path with its brilliant 

79 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

border and distant \dsta is the central dixasion of a 
charming plan.* 

Few estates in America are as imposing and as sugges- 
tive of the grandeur of an Italian or English country-seat 
as The Elms, and it is probably among the oldest of New- 
port's famous places. The illustration is limited to a nar- 
row \'iew of this great, green formal garden in some sec- 
tions of which flowers are included in rich profusion. 

Probably no place at Ne^^^)ort is more noted for its 
beauty than \'emon Court, and, while necessity forces the 
omission of pictures showing many of its most elaborate 
features, a \dew of the stately formal garden is a welcome 
addition to this collection which aims to present a variety 
in t\TDes of planting in a few large formal gardens, as well 
as in those which are smaller and more personal. \''ernon 
Court is not a new garden; it is unspoiled by garish acces- 
sories, and to the lover of the garden majestic it represents 
a perfect t^^pe. 

At Warren, near Pro\idence, the place at MUaserra 
is delightfully located, sloping to a bay. Here is one of 
the favored gardens where old trees take an important 
part; in fact, of such consequence are they that the gar- 
den was undoubtedly made to the scheme of the trees and 
the water beyond — a beautiful sanctuary of blossoms and 
green life, shut in from the discord of the outside world. 

* See also the frontispiece. 



80 




From a pholograph, copyrislil, by Miss Johnston — Mrs. Hewill 

"Mariemont," Newport, R. I. Mrs. Thomas J. Emery 



PLATE 35 







O 



s 






> 



CONNECTICUT 

Connecticut gardens are many, both inland and along 
the shores of the Sound. Those of the hilly western sec- 
tion have the advantage of a somewhat cooler altitude. 
Otherwise it is unnecessary to give further details as to 
climatic conditions,* as the northern boundary is about 
a hundred miles distant from northern New Jersey and the 
temperatures differ but little, although of course every 
hundred miles northward makes gardening a somewhat 
simpler proposition, because of slightly cooler conditions 
as well as a shortened flower season. 

In a reputed true story of the long-ago settlement 
of Old Saybrook there is mention of a woman's flower- 
garden, doubtless the earliest on Long Island Sound. 
Here the sheltered inlets and bays must have seemed 
a welcome haven to our Pilgrim fathers from the wind- 
swept coast of Plymouth, whence they had wandered, 
probably seeking fertile farmland. The gardens of this 
State, with some notable exceptions, are mainly those of 
a simpler type, made and tended by their owners, who 
living in them, will continue to beautify them more and 
more as time goes on. These unpretentious creations of 
flower lovers often show originality not always found in 
gardens of a more formal design, and might be considered 
typically American. 

Following the idea of simplicity, the first two illustra- 

* These climatic conditions are explained in New Jersey chapter. 

89 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

tions of this chapter portray the "lovesome spot," where 
flowers predominate, with nothing to recall the splendor 
of other lands. A place for the harboring of flowers for 
the sake of the flowers, and this was surely the thought 
that brooded over the first New England gardens planted 
in the early half of the seventeenth century, when Amer- 
ican gardens had their beginning. 

The glimpse through the arched gateway of the garden 
at Knock-Mae-Cree — in old Irish, Hill of My Heart — 
(Plate 168), and the curtailed view of the flowery planting 
in the Woodside garden stimulate a longing further to 
penetrate into these lovely sanctums. 

The garden at Elmwood is partly illustrated in the 
accompanAdng picture — it is further gracefully adorned 
with pergola and pool. Liberally designed without being 
elaborate, it has a charm that is all its own. 

Of quite another character is the perfect formal 
garden at Pomfret Center, appealing to the garden lover 
for its suipassing beauty in flower bloom, enhanced by the 
graceful architectural lines of the buildings surrounding 
the enclosure, and gi\ing it the sense of complete privacy. 

Still another type of garden seen occasionally in Amer- 
ica is that at Branford House, a magnificent estate at 
Groton near New London, and one of the famous places of 
that popular summer resort. This stately garden suggests 
some of the foreign gardens familiar to us through travel 
and books. 



90 




From a pltotoj^raph by Miss E. M. Bauli 

"Elmwood," Pomfret, Conn. Vinton Freedley, Esq. 



PLATE 40 




"Branford House," Groton, Conn. Morton F. Plant, Esq. 



PLATE 42 




From a pholosraph by Miss E. M . Boult 

Pomfret Centre, Conn. Mrs. Randolph M. Clark 



PLATE 43 



IV 

NEW YORK 

There are gardens, old and new, around the many 
wealthy cities of this great State, through the upper sec- 
tion, near Buffalo, Utica, Syracuse, Albany, etc., as well 
as to the south. It must suffice to give a few of the 
most picturesque views obtainable, almost all of which be- 
long to places within one hundred miles of New York City. 

The garden at Auburn offers a vision of flowers in 
glorious profusion, combined with perfect order, which 
latter condition is not always easily attainable when plants 
are allowed a certain amount of freedom. The location of 
this garden, in western New York not far from Lake 
Ontario, is in about the latitude of northern Massachusetts 
— a climate congenial to flowers. 

A particular type of garden often predominates in some 
localities on account of the conformation of the land; as, 
for instance, in a mountainous section like Tuxedo Park, 
where the places are scattered over hilly woodland country, 
many of the gardens naturally develop into those of ter- 
races, or else ideal opportunities have created the ram- 
bUng wild garden with winding paths, shaded pools, ferns 
and flowers. A glimpse of one of this kind is to be had in 

99 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

an accompanying illustration — an exquisite bit of semi- 
cultivated wildness that moves one to wish to see beyond 
the picture's limits. 

Among its formal gardens, Tuxedo at present has 
nothing more imposing than the one at Woodland. The 
wall-beds contain perennials in mass against the vine- 
clad background, and the central fountain is framed 
in broad beds of Roses, in bush and standard form. This 
garden's stately effects are enhanced by the richly de- 
veloped forms of clipped evergreens in Boxwood and va- 
rious Retinosporas, to all of which age, as must ever be 
the case, lends force and dignity. 

The Cragswerthe garden, a spacious plan on three 
connecting terraces, charmingly exemplifies the results 
obtainable by the exercise of good taste upon desirable 
opportunities. Each terrace illustrates, in harmony with 
the whole, a special beauty of its own. 

The hill gardens usually have also the advantage of a 
landscape background, as a rule a pleasant feature also in 
the Mount Kisco region of Westchester County, with its 
numerous hilltop homes. A garden with a view possesses 
a setting all its own; one that can hardly be imitated in 
that particular landscape at least, varying under the chang- 
ing clouds, and therefore never monotonous. Such also is 
the opportunity in many Hudson River places, and only 
those who have lived in the highlands by this most beauti- 
ful of American rivers know the charm of the mountain- 
sides, with their deep ravines and river vistas. 

100 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

There is space for but a few of the river gardens in these 
limited pages. The one at BHthewood, Barrytown-on- 
Hudson, is a charming example of a more modern gar- 
den, beautifully located and planted especially for May, 
June, and September. A vine-covered brick wall sur- 
rounds it on three sides, and a terra-cotta balustrade is 
the boundary on the river side. Chinese Junipers, not sup- 
posedly very hardy, are, however, the well-grown, clipped 
evergreens in sight. Barrytown is about a hundred miles 
from New York. 

Up on the Beacon Mountain the Wodenethe gardens 
were begun about seventy-five years ago, remaining ever 
since in the same family, and always celebrated for their 
beauty, due doubtless to the devoted and skilful care con- 
tinuously given them. Trees, shrubs, and vines are rich 
in maturity; the impress of Father Time has so kindly 
marked the place, that of the older gardens Wodenethe is 
probably the finest on the Hudson. 

Not far away there was once another garden. Possibly 
there is nothing fairer than the dearest memories of child- 
hood — sometimes doubtless wonderfully interwoven with 
the gossamer-like stuff of which air-castles are made — 
and so it is with deep satisfaction that the author can dwell 
upon views of an old garden relying on something more 
real than semi-dreams. To be able to duplicate this happy 
place for some other fortunate children would be a joy in- 
deed, and some day the opportunity may be realized 
while the dream still lives. Nearly three acres of land 

101 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

might be required to contain the broad beds bordered with 
peach, plum, pear trees and shrubs, and edged with flowers 
— the great centre spaces filled mth vegetables or small 
fruits. The outer court of this garden, on three sides, was 
formed by two rows of arching apple trees, as shown in an 
accompaming illustration. The fourth side was a lane 
running between an evergreen hedge and a line of Poplar 
and nut trees. The outer walks were broad, the inner in- 
tersecting paths were narrower; the tall planting in the 
various beds prevented a view from one path to another, 
and this was half of the garden's fascination to the children 
who played there in the games of make-believe. Always 
there was something unexpected awaiting them around the 
corner. Blissful the chance to become suddenly lost in 
grape vines, com, or dense shrubbery when the world 
seemed to consist of just tree-tops, sunlight, flowers, fruits, 
and birds! What a contrast to the life of the average 
fortune-favored child of the present period ! 

Echo Lawn is another lovely place near the river, as 
old, too, as Wodenethe, extensive in acres, abounding in 
splendid trees, and full of a beauty and charm peculiarly 
characteristic of the old places on the Hudson. The gar- 
dens, although of a later-date creation, are admirably 
fitted to the surroundings, and with pools, wall basins, 
and flower planting, hardly discernible in the illustration, 
are a rich addition to the noted river places. 

Twenty miles to the west of the Hudson River is 
Meadowbum Farm — famous through its ouTier, the 

102 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

author of "Hardy Garden" books. Two photographs, 
not hitherto pubhshed, must alone represent the acres of 
bloom on this interesting place. In describing it, eight 
gardens must be considered rather than the garden. The 
Evergreen Garden (shown here), the May Flowering 
Hillside, the Lily and Iris Garden, the Pool Garden, the 
Perennial Garden, the Cedar Walk, the Vegetable Garden, 
bordered with flowers, and the Rose Garden. A rare 
treat for garden lovers who visit there by special arrange- 
ment. 

At Ridgeland Farm, in Westchester County, the owner 
has shown that the smallest garden possible when fitted to 
artistic surroundings and filled with harmonious bloom can, 
as a garden and as a picture, satisfy our craving for the 
beautiful quite as completely as a subject on a much larger 
scale. This fair little plot, with its brick paths and gay 
blossoms, continues in bloom for several months, which, in 
spite of narrow beds, is always possible in a well-planned 
and carefully tended garden. 

New York includes within its borders the climate of all 
the New England States, and, besides, the atmosphere of 
its lake shores and the milder sea climate of New York 
City and Long Island. Between the high altitudes of the 
Adirondacks on the north and the sea-level of Long Island 
on the south there is a difference of nearly four weeks in 
the opening of spring. Within a forty-mile radius of New 
York City and westward in the same latitude Daffodils 
appear about April 15; early Tulips and Phlox divaricata 

103 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

the last of April; late Tulips May 10; Lilies-of- the- Valley 
May 15; German Iris May 22 (florentina alba a trifle 
earlier); and by May 25 Lupins, Columbine, Pyrethrum 
hybrid, and Oriental Poppies, etc., arrive; Roses, Peonies, 
etc., about June 1; Sweet William, Anchusa, and their 
companions June 5; Campanula medium June 15; Del- 
phinium June 20; Hollyhocks July 1 or a few days earlier. 
At the eastern end of Long Island Tulips, Lily-of-the- 
Valley, Roses, shrubs and tree foliage appear about a 
week later than the same near the city of New York. In 
our extremely variable climate it is impossible to have 
fixed dates for the opening of bloom. It must depend upon 
whether spring is early or late, which sometimes causes a 
difference of a week or ten days in the appearance of the 
flowers. Lily-of-the-Valley and German Iris seem less 
affected by variable springs than other plants. It is per- 
fectly safe near Manhattan Island to plant out tender 
annuals May 25, and many venture it by May 15. Kill- 
ing frost may be expected between October 1 and Novem- 
ber 1 — rarely earlier than October 1 . 

Forty-five miles north of the city of New York, in 
such higher altitudes as Mount Kisco or Tuxedo Park, the 
spring opens about a week later. Within this radius of 
the city the summer thermometer occasionally rises above 
seventy-eight degrees, and in winter it may average pos- 
sibly thirty to forty degrees above zero; only a few days 
know zero weather, and rarely does it drop below. At least 
once a winter there will come a period of weather as mild 

104 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

as fifty to sixty degrees, when one almost fears the prema- 
ture appearance of some of the plants. It is on account 
of the thaws as well as the cold that the plants require 
a moderate covering to keep the ground as far as possible 
frozen hard and undisturbed by the sun, as frequent thaw- 
ing injures the roots. 

A garden at the other extreme of the State, in the Adi- 
rondack Mountains, planted to begin with early Tulips, 
Phlox divaricata, and others of this period, will make its 
display about June 1. Lilies-of- the- Valley arrive soon after 
June 8; German Iris, Lupin, Pyrethrum, Oriental Poppy 
about June 15; Sweet William and Roses near July 1; 
Delphinium July 15; Hollyhocks July 25. Tender annuals 
are planted out about June 10, and a frost after that date 
is of rare occurrence. The first killing frost of autumn 
may be expected between the 15th and 20th of September. 
While the thermometer in summer fluctuates between sixty 
and eighty degrees, it often falls in winter to thirty degrees 
below zero. The hardy plants are well protected under the 
heavy snow covering which is usually the winter condition 
there. 



105 




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PLATE 44 



Auburn, N. Y. Mrs. C. D. MacDougall 




From pholographs by Emil J . Kraemer. by courtesy of Wadley &* Smythe 



PLATE 45 



x\uburn, N. Y. Mrs. C. D. MacDoucrall 



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PLATE 47 



"Woodland," Tuxedo, N. Y. Henry L. Tilford, Esq. 




From photographs by Jessie Tarbox Bcals 



A garden in three terraces 

'Cragswerthe," Tuxedo, N. Y. Mrs. Samuel Spencer 



PLATE 48 




The centre section 



PLATE 52 




The outer boundary 

The author's childhood garden, Newburgh-on-Hudson, N. Y. 



PLATE 53 



The evergreen garden 



PLATE 55 




A path in the perennial garden 
"Meadowburn," Warwick, N. Y. Mrs. Helen Rutherford Ely 



PLATE 56 



LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK 

In considering the gardens belonging to the State of 
New York, its most favored garden centre is undoubtedly 
Long Island. Here soil and climate combine to encourage 
both vegetables and flowers. And on the shores, particu- 
larly of the south side and eastern end, the most satisfac- 
tory bloom is obtainable as a rule with less trouble than is 
expended upon the flowers of the interior. Not that Long 
Island is secure from periods of drought and visitations of 
rose-bugs, but on the whole the plants weather the obstacles 
better here than in other places of this latitude. There is a 
marked softness in the winter climate especially near the sea. 
Possibly nowhere else except in southern California does 
the Privet hedge make as remarkable growth as on the 
south shore, and near the west end there are highly prized 
specimens of old Box. Southampton, at the eastern end, 
in proportion to population has probably a greater number 
of gardens than any town in the State, almost all of them 
designed and developed by their owners, who have thus 
delightfully expressed their love for flowers. 

Most soul-satisfying, unique in many points, and over- 
flowing with bloom all summer is Mrs. Wyckoff's garden 
at Southampton. Within three hundred yards of the 
beach it is truly a seaside garden, but the great Privet 
hedges, fourteen feet high, make perfect windbreaks for 
the protection of its bloom. Connected by arched open- 
ings in the Privet there are other enclosures for various 

127 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

planting schemes, and noticeable is the rather unusual 
variety of flowers growing in these several lovely gardens. 
The color grouping in the long, broad beds against the tall 
Privet background is as perfect as any planting kno\MTi. 
The arbors on either side of the garden proper are formed 
of arches of Dorothy Perkins and Cedar trees alternating — ■ 
the Cedars are bent and strapped at the top to produce 
a curve. The eft'ect is both unusual and delightful. 

In the same place but farther from the sea is another 
famous garden, at The Orchard, the estate of James L. 
Breese, Esq. The garden was started about 1905 and is 
entirely original in design. The artistic sense of the 
owner is responsible for the dexterous touches which 
beautify the garden and pergolas. Neither photography 
nor word -picture could do justice to the exquisite harmony 
of coloring throughout this wonderful place, where bloom 
is continuous over a long period. 

Fashioned in Box-edged parterres after the old-time 
plan and dear to the heart of Americans is such a place 
as the sunny Box garden at The Appletrees, so charm- 
ingly^ portrayed in this chapter. There is a sweetness and 
trimness in its simplicity intermingling mth the flowers to 
make it one of the fairest of garden-plots. 

We dwell with delight upon the picturesque view of 
a section of Mrs. Curtis's garden which might well have 
been taken from an English garden, so closely does it 
resemble that type which has been our inspiration more 
especially during the last ten years. In America the 

128 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

walled garden is found to be useful near the sea, and not 
undesirable in the cooler northern interior, but by many- 
experts it is not advised in a warm climate, where it pre- 
vents the free circulation of air within its enclosure, from 
which condition some plants may suffer. 

In the near-by hamlet of East Hampton, Mrs. Lorenzo 
Woodhouse has an ingenious scheme of connecting formal 
gardens that are as remarkable in conception as they are 
exquisite in color harmony. In length the plan is con- 
siderably greater than the width, and the long vista from 
end to end presents to the artist's eye a lovely picture of 
flowers, pool, and arches. 

Near by, on Egypt's Lane, the wild garden belonging to 
R. Cummins, Esq., is considered the best piece of work of 
its kind in the country. It is wonderfully composed with 
natural pools and streams, tea-houses and rustic bridges 
suggestive of the Japanese art, yet lovelier than the trim 
Oriental type of water garden because so delightfully wild 
and overgrown with massive plants, vines, and shrubs, 
without, however, being disorderly in appearance. It is 
an especially rare treat in early July at the season of 
Japanese Iris. 

At the west end of Long Island, near New York, gar- 
dens are almost as plentiful as those in the region of the 
Hamptons. For lack of space the illustrations of the 
lovely garden at Manor House, Glen Cove, and the pic- 
turesque pool at Cedarhurst must alone represent this 
section. Later periods of bloom succeed the Tulips at 

129 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

the Manor House. gi\dng continuous color all summer to 
this channing place. The view of Mr. Steele's garden at 
Westbury is a fine example of an ideal hillside planting 
leading to the flower-beds on a lower level. 

Probably the oldest garden in New York State is the 
one at Sylvester Manor, on Shelter Island, between the 
shores of Long Island and Connecticut. This charming 
little flower-plot is reached by a short flight of descending 
steps. Some of its old Boxwood appears in the illustra- 
tion of the pool which is a part of the garden scheme. The 
original owners of Shelter Island were the Manhasset In- 
dians. "In 1651 Nathaniel Sylvester came from England 
\\ith his young bride, and here they planted the Box. still 
one of the wonders of the place, and erected the first manor- 
house \A'ith its oak doors and panels and mantels fitted in 
England, and brick tiles brought from Holland. The pres- 
ent house was built in 1737 \\-ith enough of the woodwork 
of the old house to maintain symmetry- in traditions, and 
stands to-day as it has stood the better part of two cen- 
turies, filled with its old furniture, paintings, and curios. 
Here is kept the cloth of gold left b\- Captain Kidd and 
many other things that time and space forbid mentioning." 
The old homestead has al\\-ays remained in the famih' in 
direct descent. 



130 




a 

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From a pliologmph by Jessie Tarbox Beats 

"The Appletrees," Southampton, L. I. Mrs. Henry E. Coe 



PLATE 64 




PLATE 65 



Southampton, L. I. Mrs. G. Warrington Curtis 



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From photographs by Miss Johnston — Mrs. Hewitt 

East Hampton, L. I. Mrs. Lorenzo E. Woodhouse 



PLATE 66 




The wild garden 



PLATE 68 




From fih/H'j^rapJis hy Miii Jo/iml'/n \l , ':. , in 



PLATE e^ 



The wild garden 
East Hampton, L. I R. Cummins, Esq. 




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PLATE 72 



Westbury, L. I. Charles Steele, Esq. 




From pkotosraphs by The J. Horace UcFarlaii Co. 

"jNIanor House," Glen Cove, L. I. 



PLATE 73 







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en 



V 

NEW JERSEY 

It would take much time and long travel to discover 
the State possessing the greatest number of fine gardens, 
but there is little risk of misstatement in placing New 
Jersey as fourth or fifth on the list; New York, including 
Long Island, in the lead, then Massachusetts, and possibly 
Pennsylvania or California next. Near the sea the cli- 
mate is, of course, an especial incentive to flower-grow- 
ing, and along the Jersey coast, especially in Monmouth 
County, there are numerous gardens. Many excellent 
specimens are to be seen at Princeton, Trenton, Short 
Hills, and Morristown, as well as in the country around 
Bernardsville, in all of which places garden clubs are 
rapidly developing the cult. Only about fifty miles sepa- 
rate Trenton, Princeton, and Monmouth Beach, in central 
Jersey, from Morristown, Short Hills, etc., at the north, 
so that spring gardens practically begin in both sections 
at the same time, with possibly not more than three 
or four days' difference between them. While the south 
Jersey soil does not always encourage gardening, the 
northern half of the State may be considered on the whole 
quite fertile, and the summer temperature is not too hot 
for flowers. Occasional droughts are to be expected, but 

155 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

the water-supply is usually adequate. In the northern part 
of the State the usual date for Crocuses is March 25; Daf- 
fodils, April 15; Lily-of-the-Valley, May 12; late Tulips, 
May 10; German Iris, May 22; Oriental Poppy, Colum- 
bine, Lupin, and Pyrethrum, May 26; Roses, Peonies, An- 
chusa, and Sweet William, early June; Delphiniums, June 
20; Hollyhocks, July 1. In fact, the climatic condition, 
as it affects plant life, is very similar throughout the 
region surrounding New York City — not different enough 
to require special attention. 

The beautiful garden at Glen Alpine is one of pro- 
longed bloom from May 22 until frost, and its planting 
plans are shown in the author's "Continuous Bloom in 
America." Both English and Italian inspiration commin- 
gle in this beautiful spot. Its setting of old trees on three 
sides, with the upsloping hill to the rear covered with 
choice blossom trees and evergreens, as well as the ancient 
hedge, furnish a background in keeping with the dignity 
of the place. The pergola is only the beginning of an in- 
teresting upper shrub and bulb garden with rambling 
paths. Other views are given in plates 87 and 172. 

At Cherrycroft, the garden also blooms continuously, 
and some of its plans are likewise given in the book 
above-mentioned. The pergola and tea-house lead out 
to a maze formed by a tall Arbor- Vitge hedge. Adjoining 
is a Rose garden, more or less continually in bloom, and 
near by a garden for cutting-flowers. The outlook over 
the formal garden, both from house and pergola, is upon 

156 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

a sea of flowers, possibly unequalled in its profusion of 
bloom. The four beds encircling the pool are first covered 
with Pansies and English Daisies, each bed containing one 
large clump of German Iris, edged with Cottage Tulips. 
For later bloom, white Petunias fill two beds, light pink 
Petunias the other two beds. Surrounding the rim of the 
pool there are Campanula medium, alternating with fall- 
sown Larkspur, the former replaced by Balsam. The four 
large beds opposite the pool-beds are planted in predom- 
inating tones of yellow, blue, pink, and dark red respec- 
tively, with white freely intermixed. The beds on the 
upper level are treated rather similarly. 

At both Glen Alpine and Cherrycroft nurseries of cold- 
frames abundantly supply the many annuals and peren- 
nials required to fill the broad beds. The prevailing colors 
required in both gardens are pink, dark red, blues, and 
yellows. Of the latter, the .stronger tones are used only in 
yellow and blue beds. If there is strict adherence to their 
planting schemes the richness of their bloom will continue 
through future seasons. But, alas ! how uncertain the ful- 
filment, when the most necessary flowers may disappoint 
at the eleventh hour, or the gardeners fail to abide by the 
plans, especially concerning the color scheme! 

At Ridgewood Hill the planting is for spring and au- 
tumn bloom, and its three-terraced garden is an excellent 
piece of work, nestling to the hillside with its vista of hills 
beyond. This lovely nook deserves to rank among the 
best in terraced gardens. 

157 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

Mrs. Eraser's garden, enelosed within the semicircle 
of the house and a cur\in::i[ Hemlock hedge, is veri- 
tably a gem in lovely color-blending. All the periods of 
the garden season are represented here, difficult as it is 
to accomplish continuous bloom in narrow beds. Eirst 
Pansies and early Tulips, followed by the later ones, flood 
the little court with wonderfulh' tinted tones. Tlien Lu- 
pins, Canterbury Bells, Sweet William, Chinese Delpliin- 
ium and Lilium candidum, followed by Larkspur, Zinnia, 
Snapdragon, Scabiosa. Salpiglossis, Heliotrope. Ageralum. 
and compact Petunias, Gladioli, and September hard\' 
Chn.-santhemum. Constant ministration to tlie needs of 
this garden keeps it in a state of fresh bloom and order. 

The garden at "Onunda," Aladison. attracts many 
visitors and has long been famous for its beaut>- and order. 
It is ablaze with color from May to October. Annuals in 
richest massing fill all the small beds, and perennials with 
annuals are closely grouped in the wall beds. The color 
effect is unusual and the adjoining Rose garden is com- 
plete with choicest bloom. 

The planting at Blairsden. near Peapack, is probably 
the most perfect in the State. The accompan>-ing pictures 
give a limited idea of its beauty. The hill covered with 
wild shrubs sloping to the lake, the formal garden, the 
water garden and Rose garden, with the long inclined path- 
way seeming to lead out to space immeasurable into the 
green Garden of E\-er\mian, combine with the scenery to 
make it a place of remarkable beauty. The formal garden 

158 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

with vine-covered brick wall is like the villa, Italian in 
design. 

The numerous gardens of Short Hills must be repre- 
sented by one charming glimpse of Brooklawn, an idyllic 
spot embodying the creative sense of a poet. Its design 
is quite unusual in the garden world, and perfect in its 
simplicity. Informal rather than strictly formal, with 
beds of curving lines and grass paths it may be considered 
the most original plan in this collection. 

Old Princeton, with its picturesque university, is ad- 
ditionally favored in possessing gardens worthy of such 
associations and equalling the best in our country. The 
one at Drumthwacket is probably more reminiscent of 
English gardens than any other. The broad beds, pro- 
fuse in glowing yet orderly bloom, are especially lovely in 
June. The garden has the benefit of ancient trees as a 
setting and the richness of its planting combined with the 
white balustrade lends a noble effect, comparing favorably 
with many of those abroad. The beautiful water garden, 
reached by a winding stone stairway, is encircled by willows 
and forest trees which fill the little lake with green reflec- 
tions. 

A winter garden is a luxury so rare that one dwells 
with keenest pleasure upon the view from Thornton — a 
most perfect specimen of its kind. This evergreen plant- 
ing is the central scheme of an elaborate plan and divides 
the perennial and Rose garden on one side from the "cut- 
ting" garden on the other. The best of the evergreens in 

159 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

clipped rornis. Barberry with its bright winter berries. 
Laurel, and Rhododendron foliage unite to enliven the 
winter scene in this pleasant space, when outside all is 
gray and lifeless. 

Mrs. Seabrook's garden belongs to still another dis- 
tinctly different class, illustrating a planting which appeals 
strongh' to the many Americans who ardently admire sim- 
plicity in outdoor art. Here we find a sweet place in which 
to li\-e in idle hours, with fa\-orite flowers well-kept, a pool, 
and shaded retreats from summer sun. 



160 










w 







Reproduced by courtesy of Doubleday, Page &■ Co. 

"Blairsden," Peapack, N. J. C. Ledyard Blair, Esq. 




,^^i^ 







Reproduced by courtesy oj Doubkday, Page &* Co. 

"Blairsden," Peapack, N. J. C. Ledyard Blair, Esq. 



PLATE 80 




From a photograph by Parker Brothers PLATE 86 

''Glen Alpine," Morristown, N. J. Mrs. Charles W. McAlpin 





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PLATE 37 



"Thornton," Rumson, N. J. Mrs. J. Horace Harding 



VI 

PENNSYLVANIA 

The most zealous advocate of gardening in the early 
days was William Penn, the original proprietor of the 
State, who persistently urged his Quaker followers to 
plant gardens around the homesteads. With numerous 
old ones and an ever-increasing number of new gardens 
the State stands among the foremost as a garden centre. 
In olden times the Quaker ideas against extravagant ap- 
pearances resulted in the making of simpler places than 
those built by the people who settled in the Southern 
States; but these modest Pennsylvania gardens did not 
suffer the ravages of war, and many of them have lived 
serenely through the years. 

Andalusia came into the possession of the family of its 
present owners in 1795, and a village has gradually grown 
around the place. The garden is about one hundred 
years in age, and has been long noted for its trees and 
hedges, its fruits and old-fashioned flowers. The simplic- 
ity of its plan, so characteristic of the early gardens, de- 
tracts nothing from its charm, but rather is it filled with 
picturesque features that are truly American. 

At Fancy Field the formal garden is made somewhat 

187 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

on the plan of a type of small English garden that is be- 
coming familiar to us through the English prints. This 
formal \aew is but one of a group or series of lovely en- 
closed and connecting gardens, all seemingly bound to- 
gether by a long pergola bordering their rear; — a most 
pleasing study, as is also the garden at Edgecombe, with 
its old Box and perennials, shut in peacefully from the 
outer world and suggesting the type so dear to the heart 
of the lady of the olden time. 

Krisheim was the name given by some early German 
settlers in 1687 to a locality where is now a famous gar- 
den. This beautiful enclosure, in its spring garb, so unique 
in style, and \vith an adjoining flower garden, has its place 
among the best of the many that adorn the State. 

The garden at Willow Bank is a charming home of 
flowers, and its attraction is enhanced by the spacious 
green court surrounding it, giving double privacy to the 
flowery sanctum within. 

Typical of some of the splendid newer gardens of the 
State is the one at Timberline, rich in its background of 
old trees, gracefully designed and planted. It is one of 
the best productions of a celebrated architect. 

The Ballygarth garden, a section of which is sho^^^l in 
this chapter, is beautifully situated on one of the oldest 
estates near Philadelphia, and is of the kind so evidently 
the creation of a garden lover. 

Near Philadelphia the climate is slightly warmer than 
in north New Jersey, to which spring bloom comes at 

188 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

least a week later. In this vicinity German Iris appears 
about May 15, Sweet William, May 28, and Delphiniums, 
June 10, Hollyhocks, June 18. The time of the first frost 
is as variable as it is elsewhere. Pansies are usually win- 
tered in the open, with a certain amount of covering. 
Tender annuals are set out about May 10. The soil is 
mostly fertile enough for good results in the garden. The 
best-known gardens lie chiefly in the neighborhood of 
Philadelphia. 



189 




From a pimtosraph by Jessie Tarhox Beak PLATE 89 

"Allgates," Haverford, Pa. Horatio G. Lloyd, Esq. 




PLATE 90 



Andalusia, Pa. Mrs. Charles Biddle 




PLATE 94 



The outer court 



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PLATE 95 



"Willow Bank," Bryn Mawr, Pa. Mrs. Joseph C. Bright 



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"Timberline," Bryn Mawr, Pa. W. Hinckle Smith, Esq. 



PLATE 97 



VII 

MARYLAND 

Flower gardens adorn many of the places in Mary- 
land, most of them of the old-fashioned kind so char- 
acteristic of the Southern States, and others of a more 
recent date. The latter, though less elaborate than those 
of New England, are quite as attractive in the studied 
simplicity of their design. 

Conspicuous often are the Ivy-edged paths some- 
times replacing the low Box border, and the great growths 
of Box and rare shrubs, once imported luxuries from old 
England, speak the prosperity of early days. 

In the low country of the interior the midsummer cli- 
mate is humid and hot enough to discourage the flowers of 
this season, but when certain annuals are kept sufficiently 
moist and mulched they may pass unscathed through the 
trying season and join the few fall perennials for several 
weeks of bloom. 

Winter protection is not a matter of importance and 
Pansies need but an ordinary covering of leaves. An ex- 
treme of cold, which is rare, might bring disaster to the 
leaf-covered Canterbury Bell in the open, but this is one 
of the gambles in garden life. 

205 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

In Man'land. as generally elsewhere in this section, 
spring and June gardens prevail. The Crocus season 
opens in early March; Daffodils follow a little later; late 
Tulips and German Iris come near May 1; Sweet William 
and Peonies about May 20; and soon after the Delphin- 
iums and Hollyhocks appear. Spring work begins three 
weeks earlier than in the latitude of Long Island, and 
frost may finish the persistent Marigold near November 1 ; 
but, as elsewhere, by that time green life has had its day, 
^^tality has been spent, and nothing satisfactory can be ex- 
pected of any but the hardy late Chrysanthemum. 

There is another region of this State to be separately 
accounted for that has been more or less overlooked, and 
where the climate is more in\iting to summer gardening. 
From near Snow Hill, on the narrow peninsula south of 
Delaware, a resident writes in part: "As to this eastern 
shore, its flowers, climate, etc., too much cannot be said in 
its praise. The wonder is that this section has been over- 
looked by wealthy people seeking homes. With proper 
planting one can have flowers in the garden ten months 
of the year. During the -winter Holly and other choice 
evergreens give plenty of color for the lawns." The dis- 
tance across between the Chesapeake Bay and the sea is 
about thirty-five miles. Near the shore the place has a 
climate of its o\vn, and summer gardens need not ^vilt 
as they do inland, pro\dding they can at times be mod- 
erately sprinkled. Usually the summer climate is pleas- 
ant with an evening sea-breeze in hot weather; some- 

206 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

times a prolonged dry spell causes many things to suffer, 
but as a rule all sorts of flowering plants succeed — Roses, 
China Asters, and bulbous plants especially grow to per- 
fection. 

The illustrations representing Maryland are gathered 
from the vicinity of Baltimore, the particular garden 
region of the State. Hampton is the oldest of them all, 
being an entailed estate and one of two old manor-houses 
in Maryland still extant. A severe cold snap a few win- 
ters past did great damage to the Box, which in conse- 
quence had to be cut back, but time, it is hoped, may 
restore its original form and beauty. The spring view of 
one of Hampton's gardens was taken recently prior to the 
period of fullest bloom. This charming Box-edged parterre, 
with its fine surroundings and associations, is possibly the 
best-known in the South. 

Evergreen-on-A venue is delightfully located on the out- 
skirts of Baltimore, where many old country-seats abound. 
The lower garden only is discernible in the illustration, 
showing the dignity and charm of an evergreen gar- 
den, relieved by a massing of color in narrow beds which 
form a setting to the clipped Box and other shrubs. 
The upper garden is full of bloom and kept chiefly as a 
place for cutting-flowers. Some of the paths on this es- 
tate are edged with broad bands of Ivy. 

The wild garden at Roland Park is a work of art too 
intricately devised to be treated satisfactorily by picture 
or pen. The eye can only absorb and memory retain it, 

207 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

but description will ever fail to present it. At every turn 
there is a delightful surprise, at every season it is lovely; 
even January finds it so dressed in evergreen that winter 
seems far away. A few years ago the hillside was a 
wooded and abandoned stone-quarry until purchased for 
the purpose of creating a place of beauty out of chaos. 
An inspired imagination only could have wrought this 
miracle. 

The old Indian name for the Cylbum plantation was 
Cool Waters; it covers two hundred acres, about five 
miles beyond Baltimore. Cylburn House is of stone with 
broad verandas, and stands majestically on a high plateau, 
surrounded by gardens, shrubbery, and an extensive lawn, 
which is fringed by a beautiful primeval forest that 
stretches away on three sides to the valley below. The 
garden is one of the old-fashioned rambling kind, made 
lovely \vith a combination of tall shrubs and flowers and 
occasional trees. 

The fair little glimpse of a section of the garden at 
Ingleside breathes of spring perfume and color, with that 
indescribable sense of peace pervading especially a little 
enclosed garden where good taste and harmony prevail. 
So great is the impression of seclusion produced by the 
attractive picture that the farmer's cottage in the near 
background seems almost disconnected from this inviting 
spot. The four white standard Wistarias are remarkable 
enough to demand special attention. The beds are early 
filled with the Tulips of both periods, blooming in com- 

208 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

pany with the Wistaria. Annuals follow, and the place 
is kept in long bloom under the careful supervision of the 
owner. 

At The Blind, Havre de Grace, on the Chesapeake, is 
a charming and typically Southern garden with ancient 
Box hedges for a background, and filled with the bloom 
of many old-fashioned hardy plants and shrubs. The 
property of two hundred acres is partly under cultivation 
and partly covered with Holly and ancient trees. Around 
the gray stone mansion in springtime the place is like a 
fairy-land, with hundreds of blossoming shrubs and fruit 
trees. Originally the land belonged to the Stumpp family, 
who acquired it by grant from one of the early English 
governors. It is now in the possession of a New Yorker, 
who keeps it as a shooting-preserve and stock-farm. 



209 



I " 'x yr '~^;^ 




PLATE VII 



A rock garden 




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After autocUrome pJwtographs 



A rock garden 
Roland Park, Baltimore, Md. Mrs. Edward Bouton 



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"Ingleside," Catonsville, Md. Mrs. A. C. Ritchie 




PLATE 103 

"The Blind," Havre de Grace, Md. James Lawrence Breese, Esq. 



VIII 

VIRGINIA 

Virginia was the first of the States to adopt a luxuri- 
ous mode of living. Its early men and women, so recently 
English, were not many of them of the strictly Puritan 
type, but rather the ease and pleasure loving class, and 
shortly their fertile plantations, developed by countless 
slaves, yielded rich results, and Virginia, followed soon 
by the neighboring States, became famous for homes and 
gardens on an extensive scale. 

One of the earliest and best of these estates was Mount 
Vernon, so well preserved and yet so familiar as not to 
need an introduction or even a space in this book. Bran- 
don, Westover, Shirley, Berkeley, Castle Hill, and others 
on the River Jamics, as well as some of the splendid places 
in the "hill country," have been renovated in recent years 
and should be considered among the treasures of America. 

Mr. William du Pont is the fortunate present owner of 
Montpelier, the home of President Madison, in Orange 
County, and situated between Charlottesville and Rich- 
mond. This splendid garden was planned by Mr. Mad- 
ison soon after 1794. To quote Mr. Capen:* "On the plan 

* " Country Homes of Famous Americans." 

219 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

of our House of Representatives, it is made in a series 
of horseshoe terraces leading down to a flat rectangular 
stretch of ground. The walk from the entrance to the 
garden passes first under a charming rustic arbor, and 
then through a dense Box hedge in which some of the 
bushes have gro\\Ti so high that their branches form an 
arch overhead . . . and when one emerges from the arch 
of Box he finds spread before him in panorama the entire 
garden . . . the Box-edged aisle down its centre and 
every bed in flower. ... It must have been a rare gar- 
den, for trees and shrubs sent to Mr. Madison bj' admirers 
from all over the world were jealously guarded and nur- 
tured." 

At Rose Hill the terraced garden, with its distant view 
of hills and \-alle\', is among the best-known places of this 
section. Here the flowers, most carefully tended, bloom 
considerably during the period from April to October, 
which is unusually prolonged for a Southern garden. 
Flowering plants and clipped evergreens border the broad, 
grassy terraces and an air of simple stateliness pervades 
this charming Mrginia garden. 

Delightful indeed is the spacious formal garden at 
Meadowbrook Manor, on the James River. So cleverly ar- 
ranged is the combination of trees and flowers that the 
latter do not suffer from near association with the trees — 
many of w^hich are evergreens combining with the Box 
border to gladden the winter garden with summer green, 
and gi\ing the li\-able, homey sense to this lo\'ely enclosure 

220 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

in summer-time. In the old days the property was known 
as Sequin and belonged to relatives of Sir Thomas Gates 
of the same name. Upon this land in 1619 were operated 
the first iron-works in the country. 

Characteristic of the gardens of the older period is the 
lovely view of the garden on the Valentine place over- 
grown and ripe as only a garden can be that has lived 
through the years; unpretentious, yet richer in that mel- 
lowed growth than the most costly planting of modern 
date. 

In Virginia, mountains cover a part of the State, and 
the temperature necessarily varies according to locality. 
The climate, at least of Albemarle County, brings out 
the Crocuses in February or early March; winter Jessa- 
mine in early February, sometimes January; Daffodils in 
mid-March; Lily-of -the- Valley and Cottage Tulip early 
in April; German Iris in mid- April. Roses and Sweet 
William appear in early May; Delphinium in late May; 
Hollyhocks in early June; Phlox, July 1. And thus before 
midsummer's heat many of the best hardy perennials have 
come and gone. While summer bloom in the highlands is 
not necessarily destroyed by hot weather, unless unusual 
drought occurs, yet the autumn garden is apt to be a more 
refreshing sight with its fresh crop of Roses, the late 
Chrysanthemum, Cosmos, and indefatigable Zinnia. Of 
course to the south, and where altitude is lacking, the 
somewhat higher temperature will more or less alter these 
garden dates. 

221 







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Montpelier, Va. Mrs. William du Pont 



PLATE 106 




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PLATE 107 



Montpelier, Va. Mrs. William du Pont 




PLATE 108 



"Rose Hill" 



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PLATE 109 



"Rose Hill," Greenwood, Va. Mrs. W. R. Massie 



SOUTH CAROLINA 

There are few new gardens in South CaroUna, but an 
untold number of old ones deserving to be revived. Around 
Charleston, especially, old-time mansions, quaint walls, 
and gateways abound that are an inspiration to lovers 
of graceful antiquities. To restore an abandoned garden 
must be indeed a joy to one with enough imagination to 
recreate flower places fitted to the surroundings. 

The illustrations in this chapter give some idea of the 
richness of the early gardens laid out by the wealthy owners 
of many generations past. Magnolia-on-the-Ashley, con- 
sidered by some as one of the world's most beautiful sights, 
especially in springtime, is the most famous place in the 
State. It is owned by Colonel Drayton Hastie, who in- 
herited it from his grandfather, the Reverend Mr. Dray- 
ton, an Episcopalian minister, in whose family it had re- 
mained since the latter part of the seventeenth century. In 
the days of the Reverend Mr. Drayton it was discovered 
that the garden had been laid out over land containing 
extremely valuable phosphate deposits, but neither he nor 
his descendants would have the place disturbed for the 
sake of an increased fortune, and the garden continues as 

235 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

it was, the delight in early spring of visitors from all 
over the world. To quote one who resides near by: "The 
garden first came into notice about a hundred years ago. 
In spite of all the cultivation, it still suggests the heart of 
the forest, with the old Oak and gray moss and wild flowers 
mingling with Cherokee Roses, Jessamine, etc. These Mag- 
nolia gardens are not only wonderfully beautiful, but, I 
believe, quite unique. The great show is not Magnolias, 
or even the Camellias, although they are lovely — but the 
Azaleas, which grow in such profusion and variety of 
shades that one loses all sense of individual plant and 
flowers and perceives only glowing, gleaming masses of 
color veiled by festoons of gray moss, giving one a deli- 
cious feeling of unreality, almost enchantment. In Owen 
Wister's 'Lady Baltimore' there is a beautiful description 
of Magnolia. The coloring on the post-cards is not in the 
least exaggerated." Live Oaks over two centuries old 
draped with gray moss suspended from the branches ! This 
wonderful growth is not an uncommon sight in the South- 
em States. 

Columbia, the capital, has the famous Preston garden, 
and for many generations this beautiful property remained 
in the families of the Hamptons and Prestons. By a 
marriage a century ago the Hampton estate came into the 
possession of the Prestons, and for many years the stately 
garden with its aged Box and shade trees, its choice shrubs 
and plants, has been an object of veneration to garden 
lovers. A descendant writes: "There is no interest of im- 

236 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

portance attached to the past history of the Preston place, 
except that it has sheltered quite well known persons in its 
day, Henry Clay, Thackeray, and Miss Martineau among 
others, for its owner had acquaintances among prominent 
people in this country as well as abroad, and delighted in 
showing them hospitality when they happened in his 
neighborhood." After the war it shared the fate of al- 
most all the other Southern estates that could no longer 
be maintained as in former years, and finally became a 
woman's college, and once more receives the needed care. 

In the low coastal country, including Charleston, spring 
opens in February with Camellias, Daffodils, and bulbs. 
German Iris appears at Charleston soon after March 15, 
Phlox in June. Delphinium and Hollyhock and some 
others do not thrive in this section. The flowers that 
are carried over for autumn bloom are hardy Chrysan- 
themum, with Cosmos, Salvia, Marigolds, and Zinnias, and 
a few others able under care to resist the summer heat. 
Frost may come by November 15, but in winter thin ice 
forms only about three times, with the thermometer at 
twenty-five degrees. White Camellias sometimes begin to 
blossom at Christmas time. Such is the climate of this 
level. In the higher regions of the State climatic condi- 
tions are somewhat different and the summer heat is not 
as extreme. 



237 




From a photograph by Lyle 6r Escobar 



PLATE 114 



'Preston Garden," Columbia, S. C. 





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"Preston Garden" 




From pholosrap!is by Lyle b' Escobar 



PLATE 116 



"Preston Garden,'' Columbia, S. C. 



X 

GEORGIA AND FLORIDA 

Summer gardens, on account of the climate, are not at- 
tempted in the States of the far South; but as popular 
winter and spring resorts the grounds at these seasons 
about the villas and hotels are adorned with Palms, Roses, 
and other plants adapted to the climate. Charming spring 
gardens in formal designs are found in Georgia, where, 
because of its somewhat cooler climate and better soil, 
there are a greater number of private estates than in Flor- 
ida. The former State doubtless suffered more than any 
other in the Civil War and, consequently, enforced neglect 
of the old gardens brought ruin to most of them. At pres- 
ent some of the finest places in Georgia are delightfully 
located outside of the larger towns, and many gardens, 
some new and others renewed after a half-century of obliv- 
ion, adorn the home grounds of those who are so fortu- 
nate as to reside here at the most favored seasons. 

The illustrations of the gardens at Green Court are 
fair samples of the extensive planting in many places. 
Spring bulbs begin to open in this lovely spot by the middle 
of February, Camellias often come in January, German 
Iris appears the middle of March, Delphiniums in April. 

247 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

In Georgia the summer heat finishes most of the bloom, 
and few would venture with autumn flowers. "The 
Roses, however, when well tended, rest during summer 
to bloom gloriously again in October and until the time 
of light frost, which comes in December." The interior 
of the larger garden at Green Court, surrounded with its 
splendid outer court, is more spacious than the glimpse 
through the gateway would suggest. The charm of this 
enclosure, like Southern hospitality, is a combination of 
bountifulness and grateful simplicity. Green Court de- 
serves to stand as a representative garden of its State. 

With an almost similar climate the adjoining State 
of Alabama has its gardens also, but, unfortunately, pho- 
tographs are not now available. 

Palms of every description are the characteristic plants 
of Florida. The State is generally flat and open, but in 
the north the country is more wooded, often wild and 
swampy, with picturesque ^vinding little rivers meander- 
ing to the coasts. 

The conditions in the populous districts of Louisiana 
and Texas are so similar to Florida, where gardens are 
concerned, that it is unnecessary to use further space in 
describing plant life in these States. 



248 




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XI 

TENNESSEE AND MISSOURI 

From Tennessee the following description of its gar- 
den life is agreeably presented: "Here in the South inter- 
est in this subject is always increasing. We have many 
old and beautiful gardens full of sentiment. The mistress 
of the place is always head gardener, and in no instance 
does she relinquish her position to another. I am filled 
with enthusiasm in garden matters, and would preach 
the gospel of the garden to all women." 

Daffodils appear in February, Lilies-of-the-Valley and 
Cottage Tulips in mid-April, German Iris soon after. 
The droughts of midsummer may injure but not neces- 
sarily destroy the flowers. The winter thermometer oc- 
casionally falls to twenty degrees above zero in the cooler 
districts, and such plants as Snapdragon and Campanula 
medium are more safely wintered in a slat-frame. But 
winter once over the tender annuals can be put out as 
early as April 25. These conditions apply almost equally 
to the neighboring States of Kentucky and North Caro- 
lina, having as well their records for old-time gardens. 

The planting at Rostrevor speaks delightfully for the 
many others belonging to this section of the South. This 

255 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AiMERICA 

garden, filled with Lilies and other blossoms, shows that 
the Southern woman is as truly a flower lover as were they 
who planted the early gardens in the days before the war. 

What more tantalizing to the garden devotee than the 
glimpse beyond the gates of Long\dew garden as illus- 
trated in this chapter, and again in a later section? Such 
views as these, so exceedingly artistic in themselves, sug- 
gest a still more lovely interior, at present mthheld be- 
cause adequate photographs are lacking. 

In Missouri, as in Kansas and elsewhere in the Middle 
West, there is great variableness of climate from year 
to year, and never is it an ideal district for summer flower 
gardens, ^\^lile much attention is being given to shrub- 
bery and perennial beds bordering the la^^^l, there are few 
actual gardens, formal or otherwise. The discourage- 
ments of a trying summer climate limit the bloom in 
most of the places to the flowers of spring and Jime. 
Early flowering plants and bulbs, German Iris, Foxglove, 
Canterbury Bells, Columbine, Peonies, Lilium candidum, 
Roses, and Hollyhocks, give considerable satisfaction. 
But many other perennials are not at all permanent. To 
quote an experienced amateur gardener: "The climate of 
Kansas City, Missouri, is subject to every eccentricity, 
and at times is very trying. One of my experiences was 
a four or five inch snow-storm on the 3d of May after a 
month of warm spring weather, when German Iris and 
many other things were in full bloom, and Peonies in 
bud. E^•er^'thing was mashed do\\Ti and then it froze. 

256 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

Often when Peonies have been in bloom torrential rains 
have nearly ruined them. The greatest trouble with the 
summer garden is the extreme heat and dryness of the 
air. The earth can be kept moist around the plants, 
but many things wither in the dry air. With the greatest 
care a garden of. annuals might be kept looking fairly well 
through July and August, but I am glad to get away from 
mine early in July." 

The climate of these adjoining Middle States is prac- 
tically the same throughout, with possibly even more 
sunshine than in the eastern States. "In May and June 
there are frequent heavy showers, but rarely all-day rains. 
In the later summer and autumn cloudy days are excep- 
tional. The eastern side of Missouri is said to be slightly 
cooler than the western part; Kansas City averages a 
somewhat higher summer temperature than Washington, 
D. C, which is in the same latitude. Spring bulbs and 
many spring perennials appear three weeks earlier than 
near New York City." The gardens usually look spent 
by September, but in the cooler sections, with an extra 
amount of summer care, there may be still seen flowers 
sufficient to adorn a garden during some weeks of autumn. 

The garden at Hazelwood, near St. Louis, is laid out 
with curving grass paths and broad beds. The bright 
display begins with Daffodils, and the beds retain rich 
bloom into the middle of June. In September, after good 
care. Marigolds, Zinnias, Snapdragon, Cosmos, hardy 
Asters, Chrysanthemum, and Helenium are the autumn 

257 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

decorations. Frost usually finishes everything about Octo- 
ber 15. The winter temperature is often ten degrees be- 
low, and the tender plants, like Foxglove and Pansies, 
are more safely wintered under slat-frames covered with 
straw, and Larkspurs should have a light covering of leaves. 
Surely the gardens that are faithfully tended through such 
changes and chances of climate as found in this section be- 
speak the highest degree of devoted patience. 



258 



XII 

ILLINOIS AND INDIANA 

Illinois, with its claim to countless fine estates, in- 
cludes a plentiful share of gardens, and more especially 
in the lake region, where luxuriant growths of trees tell of 
congenial soil and climate. As a background the great 
lake stretches like a sea beyond many of the beautiful 
flower-borders, which bloom almost as richly as those near 
the distant ocean. 

Unfortunately some of the finest plantings are not 
illustrated in this book, which is limited to gardens of a 
formal design, and the type characteristic of Illinois is 
mostly informal, as so frequently seen in America, — an 
arrangement which does not lend itself satisfactorily to 
photography. In such a plan the fiowers are usually 
massed in long, broad beds bordering the lawn, the front 
lines are laid in irregular curves, with trees and shrubs 
for the background. Groups of shrubs with other beds 
are sometimes used to break a wide stretch of lawn, and 
make a rambling and delightful sort of garden scheme. 
But in photography detail is lost when the camera is at 
sufficient distance to include more than a small section of 
such a design. For this reason pictures can never do full 

265 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

justice to the flower planting on such notable places as 
those of Albert N. Day, Esq., Lake Forest; Wm. C. Egan, 
Esq., Egandale, Highland Park; George Higginson, Esq., 
Meadow Farm; and W. G. Hibbard, Esq., both at Win- 
netka, and many others. 

The spring display of late Tulips at Highland Park 
and Lake Forest is especially remarkable. Masses of Dar- 
wins and Cottage varieties in perfect color blending are 
planted everywhere, in the woods, in shrubbery, and in 
borders. 

The illustration of the formal garden at Lake Forest, 
owned by Harold McCormick, Esq., gives a vivid idea of 
the form and finish of this charming place, which must 
always stand among the best of middle West gardens, 
well favored in the beauty of its surrounding trees and 
generously planted with perennials and shrubs. It has 
the charm of individuality rather uncommon to large 
gardens, and stands for that welcome type which seeks 
to be itself. 

Hardin Hall garden, with the great lake as a back- 
ground, has recently joined the ranks of beautiful Ameri- 
can gardens. Every new garden is as a jewel added to 
the crown of its State, and this little gem in planting is 
noted throughout the North Shore. Stepping-stones in 
the grass lead to another green enclosure, designed on a 
less formal plan, — the whole scheme being most artistic- 
ally conceived. 

The climate near the lake is slightly cooler than in 

266 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

other localities, spring opening from one to two weeks 
later than inland. The difference in time of spring bloom 
on this shore and near New York City is only about a 
week. The climate on the lake front is especially variable. 
The country is a flat upland broken with wooded ravines. 

Out in central Illinois, in Piatt County, there are fif- 
teen thousand acres belonging to a famous estate beyond 
Monticello. The Farms contains delightful gardens on 
an extensive scale, quite English in design, and as far as 
possible in keeping with the Georgian architecture of the 
house. Juniper Hibemica is freely used over the main 
garden, enriching with its deep evergreen tones the broad 
expanse of flower-bordered beds. The walls are covered 
with Chinese Wistarias, Japanese Honeysuckle, trained 
peach trees, nectarines, pears, and plums. 

Monticello is in the latitude of Philadelphia ; the 
blooming dates almost correspond, but frost destroys a 
trifle earlier. The highest summer thermometer rarely 
reaches one hundred degrees, sometimes dropping in win- 
ter to twenty-seven degrees below. Tender annuals can 
usually be planted out after May 15. Mulching and 
watering is necessary to preserve the summer bloomers. 

Famous in the annals of southern Indiana is the large 
estate at Lexington known as Englishton Park, and for 
six generations the property of the English family. 

Problems of insufficient rain, poor soil, and rocky 
ground have been overcome by most scientific measures, 
and now a pool filled with Lilies and bordered with water- 

267 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

loving plants is a feature of a wonderful rock garden 
abundantly and tastefully planted with the perennials 
most suitable for rocks or for moisture. The Rose garden 
near by and long path leading to the house, bordered with 
beds of perennials, are further delightful tributes to the 
devoted labor of one who has spent much time on this, 
her gladdest task. 



268 




PLATE 126 



' The Farms ' 



^.^"^'^^ 




PLATE 127 



'The Farms," Monticello, 111. Robert Allerton, Esq. 




PLATE 128 



The rock garden, "Englishton Park" 




The rock garden, "EngHshton Park," Lexington, Ind. Mrs. W. E. English 



PLATE 129 



XIII 

OHIO 

The difference is slight between the cUmate of Ohio 
and other States of its latitude in the East and middle 
West. While there is no mountainous region, northern 
Ohio has the advantage of a great lake as its border. On 
a line with central Connecticut, the temperature of Cleve- 
land is similarly favorable to flower growing, and garden 
enthusiasts are increasing. Like most of the Middle 
States, the country is rather flat and the soil fertile as a 
rule. But, except on the lake shore, the gardens suffer 
more or less from the hot weather and scarcity of mois- 
ture. 

In the northern half of Ohio spring bulbs appear si- 
multaneously with those in northern New Jersey, and the 
later plants follow in the same succession. The southern 
half of Ohio is in the latitude of Maryland and its climatic 
conditions are almost similar. The spring and June gar- 
dens in the middle West give the best satisfaction. The 
climate is variable, as it is elsewhere throughout the 

country. 

One charming illustration conveys some idea of the 
garden at Gwinn, which is eight miles from Cleveland, 

277 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

and undoubtedly the most notable in this State. By- 
early April the spring garden blooms with Hepatica, Cro- 
cus, Chionodoxa, Scilla, Sundrops, Pansy, English Daisy, 
Spring Beauty, Bloodroot, Trillium, Cypripedium, Violet, 
Tuhp, Hyacinth, and Daffodil, followed soon by many 
later garden favorites. Sufficient water is supplied to 
carry the bloom safely through midsummer and Septem- 
ber, and year by year the beauty of this garden is increas- 
ing with the maturing of its trees and shrubbery, and all 
that tends to complete the dignity of so noble a design. 

So artistically wrought are all the various features con- 
tributing to the beauty of the Clifton garden that choice 
of illustrations is made difficult when selection is limited 
to so few. This fact explains the omission of the little 
flower garden which even though charming must give place 
to the accompanying remarkable views. 

Not far from Cleveland Shadyside, on the lake, is an- 
other place of interest to .flower lovers, and here a small 
formal garden has been recently completed in addition to 
the older water garden. This delightful spot is worthy of 
particular attention not only on account of the variety 
of plants adorning its banks, but for its picturesque set- 
ting as well. 

Indian Hill offers a glimpse of a fair little garden, 
with no suggestion of display; a vine-covered bower sur- 
rounded with flowers, — a creation of simple loveliness. 



278 




PLATE 131 



A picturesque spot in Mrs. Taft's garden 




PLATE 132 



A corner in the pergola 

Clifton, Cincinnati, Ohio. INIrs. Samuel H. Taft 




The water garden 
Clifton, Cincinnati, Ohio. Mrs. Samuel H. Taft 



PLATE 133 




The water garden 
"Shadyside," Painesville, Ohio. Mrs. H. P. Knapp 



PLATE 134 




PLATE 135 



^Indian Hill" 




"Indian Hill," Mentor, Ohio. Mrs. John E. Newell 



PLATE 136 



XIV 

MICHIGAN AND WISCONSIN 

Favored indeed are the gardens of these States, which 
border on the Great Lakes, some five hundred and eighty 
feet above sea-level. The country in most parts is fer- 
tile and flat, with a climate superior to that of New Eng- 
land in summer, and winters equally as cold. To quote 
our well known garden friend, Mrs. Francis King, of Alma, 
in central Michigan: "We have a very fine summer climate, 
most favorable to gardening; no humidity whatsoever, 
but dry and bracing, and while a short summer, a merry 
one for flowers. We must plan for a late spring, and 
frost is due in early September; but when we have learned 
these things it is very simple to arrange for them. Our 
rainfall is usually sufficient, and we practically never suffer 
from the heat. Hardy Chrysanthemums need a very 
sheltered position in winter. At Detroit, one hundred 
and fifty miles southeast of Alma, the trees are in spring 
foliage almost ten days earlier, partly owing to the dis- 
tance southward and partly to the warming influence of 
Lake St. Clair." 

The garden at Orchard House, Alma, so vividly de- 
scribed in "The Weil-Considered Garden," is too familiar 
to most gardeners to need description. Briefly, the plant- 

287 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

ing over the large space is all balanced in predominating 
colors of rose, lavender, white, and palest yellow. Gray- 
foliage and white flowers are freely used, and through the 
entire summer there is not one week when the whole gar- 
den is not gay with flowers from June until frost. 

To the northeast of Alma is the lovely garden at Gar- 
ra-tigh, where Daffodils bloom, as in Alma, three weeks 
later than near the city of New York. Bay City is in the 
latitude of Portland, Maine, and central Oregon. This 
attractive garden shows the effective combination of 
flowers and trees so well arranged that the trees are not 
detrimental to the vigor of the plants, and the sunny 
garden space is doubly radiant by contrast, lying within 
the trees' encircling shadows. Garra-tigh is the Gaelic for 
House with the Garden. 

Near Detroit, at Fairlawn, Grosse Pointe Shores, on 
Lake St. Clair, where the country is flat and fertile, there 
is another delightful place of interest noted for the 
abundance of flowers covering several acres of land. The 
accompanying photograph was made in early September, 
when the best of the bloom had passed. In June and 
July the place is a glory with Lilies, Columbine, and Del- 
phinium that are counted in hundreds, and earlier there 
are Tulips and Daffodils by the thousands. Behind the 
broad borders that edge the walks vegetables grow in great 
quantities. Early Tulips come the first week of May, 
late Tulips about May 20. Climate and soil combine to 
simplify the gardening tasks in this productive country. 

288 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

The House in the Woods, on Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, 
has a beautiful garden so well planned that it seems 
like an outdoor room to this charming villa. The plant- 
ing scheme is moderate, easily maintained, and yet with 
beds broad enough to include without difficulty the plants 
for a long, continuous bloom. Opposite the house the 
picturesque studio, standing out against the wooded 
background, borders the garden on this side so that it lies 
within an enclosed court. 



289 




Studio from main house 



PLATE 140 




Court from studio terrace , 
"House-in-the- Woods," Lake Geneva, Wis. Frederic Clay Bartlett, Esq. 



PLATE 141 



XV 

NEW MEXICO 

The mountainous States of the West, from Montana 
to New Mexico, from Colorado almost to the Pacific, have 
a climate of their own, varying naturally according to 
latitude. A resident of Las Cruces, New Mexico, writes: 
"The first killing frost is usually to be expected from the 
7th to the 25th of October, very often it is much later, 
and we have had tomatoes till December with the slight- 
est possible protection. Many flowers in a sheltered 
position bloom in winter, such as Calendula, Violets, 
Wallflowers, and Pansies. The highest ordinary summer 
thermometer is ninety-two to ninety-eight degrees. The 
lowest usually in winter is fifteen degrees — occasionally it 
has gone down to fifteen or twenty degrees below zero, 
but that is most exceptional. The climate is extremely 
dry. Most of New Mexico is at a high altitude — we are 
about three thousand eight hundred feet above sea-level 
here. 

"As some plants blossom through the winter, it is 
hard to say when the garden begins to bloom. But about 
the middle of March we have Crocuses, followed the 1st 
of April by Jonquils, Narcissus, Tulips, and other bulbs, 

299 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

also German Iris, Lilac, Periwinkles, Cornflower, Mi- 
gnonette. In the mountains near-by the California Poppies 
bloom at the same time. Then about mid- April come 
Tea Roses — ^and at the end of April or soon after the 
Peonies and Sweet Peas. The 1st of May or a little later 
Honeysuckles, Phlox, Snapdragon, Zinnias, and annual 
Larkspurs appear. Almost everything that is not ex- 
tremely tender can be wintered in open ground without 
protection. Tender annuals should be planted out about 
the end of March. I transplanted some things last year 
the end of April, and the noonday sun was too much for 
them, though I shaded them for some time. We plant 
seeds of Pansies, Asters, Sweet Peas, etc., in the fall for 
best results." 

The garden at Mr. Barker's mountain home is delight- 
fully fitted to its surroundings, where nature is supreme 
and all else studied simplicity. Flowers revel in their 
freedom without the restriction of conventional beds. 
Flowers, nature, and the simple life of the Southern hills 
is the message from this distant home. 



300 



XVI 

CALIFORNIA 

The garden section of this State extends the length 
of its coast, and possibly fifty miles inland, and much is 
conveyed in a few words when it is described as one garden 
throughout this whole region. In the hill country moun- 
tains are admirable settings to tropical gardens, and from 
there to the sandy shores a delectable climate with pre- 
vailing westerly sea-winds encourages phenomenal growth 
of the choicest plants. 

Southern California is particularly blessed with a clear, 
dry, and balmy climate. Quoting an authority in Santa 
Barbara: "There is practically no frost in southern Cali- 
fornia; in the north there is some. There are flowers in 
our gardens at all times of the year. Tulips bloom in 
February and March; Daffodils, German Iris, and other 
hardies from February to May; also Lilies-of-the- Valley, 
which latter are more scarce on account of the dryness of 
the atmosphere. From March till autumn there is bloom 
from Sweet William, Phlox, and many others of their 
kind, while Geranium, the common Marguerite, and Heli- 
otrope grow all the year around and become large bushes. 
Roses cover the tops of some villas; Cosmos, California 

303 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

Poppy, Zinnia, Nasturtium, and Stock are among the 
favorite annuals; and all, whether hardy or tender, may 
be planted out in March when the winter rains are over. 
Some of the favorite exotic shrubs used for their bloom 
are the Acacias, Genista, etc., Solanums, and Choisia 
Temata." Quite common are the great Poinsetta plants 
and the soft, trailing Bougainvillea, with its exquisite red 
matching in tone the color of our autumn leaves. Box- 
wood is little used in this climate. Toward San Fran- 
cisco and northward it is found in greater quantity. To 
the south it is replaced by Myrtus communis nanus, 
Myrtus microphylla, Veronica Andersonii for low hedges; 
Monterey Cypress, Eugenia myrtifoiia, different species of 
Ligustrum (Privet), which are all evergreen here, Duranta 
Plumerii, and others. 

The highest temperature in Santa Barbara for a few 
days in fall is about eighty-six degrees Fahrenheit and the 
lowest in winter is forty degrees for a few days. The 
summers are ver>^ cool. The climate of Santa Barbara 
is quite similar to Sorrento, Italy, only better. The far- 
ther north on the coast the more rain. In Santa Barbara 
there is sunshine continually, except for the brief period 
of rain in winter. The warmest months are August, Sep- 
tember, and October. From May to August there are 
fogs at night along the coast which keep the temperature 
down during the day. 

In this paradise of sunshine and flowers are found a 
bewildering number of wonderful subjects for photography, 

304 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

some of which must give an idea of the favored vegetation 
of California. 

At Kimberly Crest, as in the other views, most con- 
spicuous is the brilliant clearness of the atmosphere. This 
beautiful country-seat is a sample of many which are built 
more or less on a similar plan, and especially noted for their 
profusion of choicest shrubs, trees, and flowering plants. 

At Glendessary is found one of California's favorite 
gardens, where the strong sunshine is moderated by the 
plentiful use of trees so carefully arranged that the shadows 
do not disturb the growths of flowers, which bloom abun- 
dantly throughout this lovely place. 

The flower garden at Piranhurst, named for Saint 
Piran, an Irish saint, is exceedingly picturesque. The 
wonderful Greek Theatre, with its wings of tall, clipped 
Cypress, is without a rival in this country. The design 
was modelled after one at the Villa Gori, in Italy. This 
remarkable planting, together with the Roses and other 
flora in the adjoining garden, combine to make it one of 
the most famous places on the coast. The owner of 
Piranhurst is also possessor of the garden at Ross, partly 
shown in the view of a fountain, with its hill background 
covered with massively grouped Hydrangeas and Rose 
vines. 

Perfectly complete in every detail is the lovely pool in 
Doctor Schiffman's garden. It seems more a product of 
the Old World across the sea, while fitting so happily into 
the tropical atmosphere of Pasadena. 

305 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

The marvellous growth of Banksia and Cherokee 
Roses, the field of Marguerites, and the background of 
snow-peaked mountains, all so characteristic of California, 
belong to Canon Crest Park, an estate well known to 
many travellers. Wonderful, too, are the Palms that 
overarch the driveway, and beautiful the gardens and 
panorama beyond. 

The Cactus planting of a San Diego garden is an in- 
teresting study in the horticulture of California — this 
most favored State of the great Union. 



306 




PLATE 143 



■ Kimberlv Crest" 




PLATE 144 



"Kimberly Crest," Redlands, Cal. Mrs. J. A. Kimberlv 




The Greek Theatre — the stage 



PLATE 146 





i^»h^>"- 






PLaTE 147 



The Greek Theatre — the boxes 
"Piranhurst," Santa Barbara, Cal. Mrs. Henrv Eothiii 



■K -^SHB^^ 


i^fe. 






■Ky' 


^^ 




''0 4^^'W,i<'^ 




1 






^' lli^H^^^^S^^ 


■ 


^ -^>,- ■ 






. 



PLATE 14-8 



"Piranhurst," Santa Barbara, Cal. Mrs. Henry Bothin 




PLATE 149 



RosSj Cal. Mrs. Henry Bothin 




PLATE 151 



" Canon Crest Park 




PLATE 152 



'Canon Crest Park," Redlands, CaL Mrs. Daniel Smiley 




PLATE 153 



" Cation Crest Park " 



/''■'.■ . ■'.'■ ■ .''>■-■."■■■':-■■■. ■■ ■■■' 

■ ii/-^'- - ■■■'-■' :' ■;;■;■ ': "■" 






' ^',^^ 'mr-'^'^^^}i^.^^m^^^^^^^M 








r¥ ~'^'^'^v.^^^:iM^^k«^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^H 



PLATE 154 



"Canon Crest Park/' Redlands, Cal. Mrs. Daniel Smiley 




From a photograph by Brown Brothers 



A Cactus garden, Riverside, Cal. 

Typical growth in California 



PLATE 155 



XVII 

OREGON AND WASHINGTON 

In this coast region of the Northwest, shrubs, trees, 
and vines develop rapidly and give sooner to the garden 
the appearance of completeness than is the case in the 
drier climates. An authority from Portland says: "The 
growing season is long, lasting from March 1 to Novem- 
ber 1, and in the places where lawns are well kept they 
are green throughout the entire winter. At this period, 
however, the grass does not grow enough to require clip- 
ping. Several shrubs, such as the Laurestinus, remain in 
foliage throughout the entire winter. Usually a few be- 
lated Roses are found on the bushes as late as Christmas, 
not the perfect blooms of summer, by any means, but 
sufficiently good-looking to adorn a vase in the drawing- 
room. The freezing weather would ordinarily come in 
January and be very limited in duration." In February 
the spring bulbs, Daffodils and Forsythia, appear. 

At Tacoma and throughout the coast section of Wash- 
ington the climate differs but slightly from that of Port- 
land, Oregon, the latter having probably less rain and 
mist, but the whole coast is ideal for flowers. The summer 
is the dryest season, when gardens will require some sprin- 

323 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

kling but not to the extent necessary in most portions of 
the country. Another authority states that in this north- 
west coast district it is clear 43 per cent of the year be- 
tween sunrise and sunset. On an average, 80 clear days, 
122 partly clear days, 163 cloudy days. A day which is 
up to three-tenths cloudy is classed as clear. A day four- 
tenths to seven-tenths cloudy is classed as partly clear. 
Days in excess of tour-tenths cloudy classed as cloudy. 

Near Tacoma, among majestic surroundings of forest 
and lake, with Mount Tacoma as a background, are the 
famous gardens of Thomewood, rich in flowers and shrubs 
and splendid garden architecture. Trees and hedges will 
mther and die, but the "everlasting hills" and the silver 
waters of American Lake mil form a perpetual background 
to this beautiful place, built in 1880 and standing as the 
pioneer great garden of the State. 

Gardens even in the cities are becoming numerous, 
and attached to many fine residences the planting, though 
now in its youth, promises to add great adornment in the 
near future to these municipalities of the Northwest. Mr. 
Merrill's spacious place in Seattle, partly shown in two 
small views, illustrates the delightful possibilities of a town 
garden. 

The Rose hedge and lovely Rose garden at Rose Crest 
are typical of hundreds of others in Portland. The hedges 
are usually made up of Madame Caroline Testout Roses, 
the most popular sort there; in fact, Portland's official 
emblem. By June 1, along the curbing of the avenues, 

324 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

there are miles of Roses in bloom, and, as may be imagined, 
the effect is very pleasing. The climate of western Oregon 
is quite similar to favored portions of England, but has 
the advantage of more sunshine. The variety of vegeta- 
tion is almost endless. Plants native to England will 
grow here that will not thrive in other parts of the United 
States, and the gardening tasks are simple in comparison 
to the toil necessary where gardens are subject to greater 
extremes of heat, cold, drought, and similar problems. 

Cliff Cottage and High Hatch, both about six miles 
south of Portland, on the Willamette River, possess gar- 
dens in their beginning, both interestingly planned and al- 
ready known to garden lovers even beyond the limits of 
that State. The Cliff Cottage garden is designed in four 
terraces, with a rich background of primeval trees. Dwarf 
fruit trees and vegetables fill the beds that are all bordered 
with flowers. The stone stairway leading to the several 
terraces is in keeping with the natural surroundings of a 
wooded hillside. Rock planting is also a feature. The 
landscape in the distance is a beautiful outlook. 

High Hatch has a combination of upper and lower 
garden, partly in a rock garden, spread out over consider- 
able undulating land with winding gravel paths and stone 
stairs connecting the various parts. A wide white stone 
balustrade divides the broad lawn from the gardens below, 
and a fine growth of aged pines completes the adornment 
of the place. 



325 




PLATE 157 



" Thornewood " 




"Thornewood," Tacoma, Wash. Chester Thorne, Esq. 




PLATE 159 



Seattle, Wash. Robert Merrill, Esq. 




PLATE 160 



Seattle, Wash. Robert Merrill, Esq. 




PLATE 161 



Section of a Rose hedge bordering an avenue in Portland, Ore. 




PLATE I 62 



"Rosecrest," Portland Heights, Portland, Ore. Mrs. F. I. Fuller 




PLATE. 163 



A garden in three terraces 
"Cliff Cottage," Elk Rock, Portland, Ore. Peter Kerr, Esq. 




A rock garden leading to formal garden 
"High Hatch," Riverwood, Portland, Ore. Thomas Kerr, Esq. 



PLATE 164 



XVIII 

ALASKA 

Lasl, but not least, comes Alaska; even if last to 
arrive on the map of the Union, yet not least in size of 
territory or in flowers, and with still another condition 
of climate to be considered. Alaskan gardens are as 
yet but tiny modest plots against the gray log cabins, 
suggesting the homes of our Pilgrim fathers on the milder 
New England coast so long ago, and as we think of the 
stone and marble pergolas in modem New England, there 
comes the suggestion: "Then why not Alaska likewise 
some day?" 

To those who think of Alaska only as a land of snow 
and ice, descriptions of its flower-surrounded log cabins 
seem like impossible dreams. Quoting from Reverend 
Mr. Lumpkin's paper: 

" In coming into Alaska, you first awake to the beauti- 
ful reality in Skagway. This is the point where the White 
Pass road is taken to make connection with the river boats 
for the interior. Your eyes rest upon the wonderful fulfil- 
ment of the flowers and your crag-weary soul is refreshed. 

"Every growing thing in Alaska seems to exemplify 
the Alaskan spirit, and that is to make the very best of 

337 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

bad conditions, and to make the very most of the many- 
good ones. With the dark winters and short summers, 
every ray of sunshine has to be used, and when in the 
summer the sun shines all day and nearly all night for 
three months, there is no time for loafing in flower land. 

"Just take a walk douTi through Fairbanks in July 
and you will begin to think that wonders will never cease. 
You will see flowers, that at home you had to coax and 
nurse into growth, here in radiant, luxuriant masses. The 
Pansies are unusually large, whole borders of them, and 
paths bordered with beds a foot wide, filled to the edges 
with changeable velvet. Sweet Peas grow up to the tops 
of the fences, and then, if no further support is given them, 
over they go, back to the ground again. All summer 
the Nasturtiums climb nearer and nearer the roofs of the 
cabins, and bloom and bloom in sheer delight. Some 
paths are bordered with Poppies, big stately red and 
white, and white and pink ones, or the golden California 
beauties. These natives of warmer climes seem perfectly 
at home in the Northland. Asters scorn hothouses and 
grow in profusion wherever they are planted, and wher- 
ever they are they are beautiful. They are as large as 
the Chrysanthemums the Easterner delights in, and of all 
the various changes of colors. By them, perhaps, will be 
Dahlias as large and rich as any you have ever seen. The 
more beauty-loving and flower-loving the owner of the 
garden, the longer you will stay to look and wonder. 
Candytuft, Sweet Alyssum, and Mignonette will greet 

338 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

you from their accustomed places on the borders of beds 
of flowers, and you will almost smile at them as at some 
old-time friend. Then you will see where some daring 
gardener has bordered the beds with Phlox or Snapdragon, 
and you will feel compelled to admire the result. 

"Never have I seen such Begonias. The flowers are 
like Camellias, and the colors exquisite. Shades of pale 
yellow to deep yellow, pale pink to deep pink, and the pure 
white. The Geraniums, too, grow to giant size, and seem 
to be ever-blooming. One really is tempted to feel the 
stalks of some of them before it can be believed that they 
are not two plants tied together. There was a Geranium 
in one of the small towns which filled the window of a 
store. 

"Many cabins have five or more baskets hanging from 
the eaves. Imagine gray log cabins with birch baskets 
filled with blue Lobelias; flame-colored Nasturtiums climb- 
ing to the roof, beds of velvet Pansies, borders of crimson 
Poppies leading to the gate, where golden California 
Poppies make way for you to pass, and beyond, the dis- 
tant Alaskan mountains, snow-covered and glistening in 
the sun. Imagine one cabin, and then think of streets of 
them; change your flower colors as you will, as a child 
changes his kaleidoscope, and you will have some idea of 
Alaska flower land." * 

* From The Alaskan Churchman. ' 



339 



XIX 

VANCOUVER ISLAND 

The lure of the far-famed gardens of the island so 
close to our shores is enticing enough to make a happy 
excuse for giving the space of a page to one of its smaller 
gardens. 

In the heart of this fair garden, in the country of the 
Englishman, at the end of this book on American gardens, 
the author, though a proud American, unhesitatingly ad- 
mits that usually it is the Englishman who has inspired us 
to make gardens as nearly as possible like those of the 
mother country. Is it the old blood that is stirring 
within us, the common bond of past associations and 
brotherhood so often expressed in our physical resem- 
blances as well as in many of our ideals ? The garden in 
the accompanying illustrations shows a beautiful combina- 
tion of flowers with picturesque old trees. 

The climate of this favored place is even more de- 
lightful and balmy than that of the mainland, and the 
charm of the great Pacific is doubly felt along these quiet 
shores. The untravelled may picture it as isolated and 
forsaken, but rather is it just enough retired to be apart 
without loneliness; and, except in a few cities, excluding 

340 



BEAUTIFUL GARDENS IN AMERICA 

the turmoil of the world, yet hospitably open to the 
friendly passer-by. 

There is more sunshine here than in England, although 
the climates are very similar. On Vancouver Island there 
are the four distinct, well-defined seasons; the temperature 
is more like that of Portland than of Tacoma. The island 
is generously covered with vegetation, and when its native 
wild flowers are considered, in addition to the gardens in 
rich cultivation, it may well be called a garden island. 



341 




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